A Gift for Teaching Surpasses $200 Million Mark Affirms Community Support for Teachers and Students Amid Change 

As Central Florida schools prepare for transitions at the end of the academic year, A Gift for Teaching announced a defining milestone: more than $200 million worth of educational resources distributed to support students and educators in Central Florida!

The milestone comes at a moment when stability in classrooms matters more than ever. The nation’s eighth-largest school district, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), continues to strategically navigate shifting enrollment patterns and financial realities while maintaining instruction and student success.

Reaching $200 million in distributed school supplies is about far more than a number—it reflects nearly three decades of generosity, partnership, and a community that believes in teachers and students,” said Jane Thompson, president of A Gift for Teaching.

“This milestone belongs to everyone who understands that classroom supplies are not extras—they are essential tools for learning, confidence, and opportunity.”

As an Orlando-based nonprofit without federal funding; the impactful work of A Gift for Teaching is made possible by community support through donations, supply drives, volunteers, and monthly donors known as Classroom Heroes. With longstanding partnerships and support by OCPS, Duke Energy, Rollins College, Orlando Health, and many others, A Gift for Teaching remains committed to equipping local teachers so students can continue to learn with confidence. 

Founded in 1998 on the belief that school supplies should never be a barrier to learning, A Gift for Teaching supports Central Florida public school teachers by transforming every $1 donated into $10 worth of classroom resources.

“This milestone for A Gift for Teaching demonstrates the power of a community coming together to support Orange County students and educators,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings.

“By helping provide essential classroom supplies and resources, A Gift for Teaching is ensuring our public school teachers have the tools they need and our students have every opportunity to succeed.”

To mark this success, A Gift for Teaching will highlight the collective impact of the community with billboards across Central Florida announcing the achievement, a presentation at the OCPS school board meeting, and commemorative moments at its Free Teacher Supply Store.

The celebration will continue with the return of The Great Big Backpack Build on June 4, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center. This annual event launches A Gift for Teaching’s Ready for Back-to-School campaign with hundreds of corporate volunteers hand packing 30,000 backpacks with essential school supplies.

As Central Florida classrooms continue to adapt to major changes within the education system, consistent support remains critical. Community members are invited to become Classroom Heroes through A Gift for Teaching. For less than $1 a day ($25/month), Classroom Heroes help supply three classrooms each year with essential supplies.