Inspired by community response, STCU invests in Almira School District

STCU has committed to a $56,000 investment in Almira School District as part of its recovery from a devastating 2021 fire.

In an agreement with the school district, STCU will cover full costs of an external reader board and two gymnasium scoreboards at the rebuilt Almira Elementary and Middle School.

The building, which is set to open in September 2023, is a replacement for the 80-year-old school that burned on October 9, 2021.

Immediately following the fire, school districts, agencies, nonprofits and individuals rushed to respond. Within days, donated Chromebook laptops were distributed to students, who initially turned to remote learning, before moving into temporary classrooms furnished with donated desks and worktables. STCU was one of many organizations that donated to a fund established by Innovia Foundation, and provided gift cards to help school staff purchase supplies they’d need.

“First, we were stunned by the crisis, with students removed from their beloved school just a month into the academic year,” said Ezra Eckhardt, STCU President and CEO. “Then, we were awed by the community response.”