SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union recently reaffirmed its dedication to the education community and its members through a series of impactful initiatives spanning from Sacramento to San Diego.
By expanding its physical footprint in Los Angeles and sponsoring key programs that honor teaching excellence, the credit union continues to serve as a vital pillar for school employees and their families across the state.
As part of its ongoing mission to provide personalized financial services, SchoolsFirst recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Los Angeles Mid-City Branch. The event brought together members, local elected officials, and community leaders to mark the addition of the credit union’s 72nd location in California.
The new branch is strategically positioned to serve the approximately 10,000 members who live and work within a five-mile radius of the Mid-City location.
“When we open a new branch, it’s about making it easier for our members to get the support they need right in their own neighborhood,” said Jose Lara, president of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, local leaders — including California Senator Lola Smallwood Cuevas and representatives from the offices of Congresswoman Laura Friedman and California Assemblymember Isaac Brown — presented certificates of recognition. Smallwood Cuevas said the opening serves as a signal of growth and financial strength, ensuring that the institution remains a long-term partner in the prosperity of local families and businesses.
SchoolsFirst recently partnered with Friends of Sacramento Arts to host the fourth annual Heroes of Arts Education Gala at The Sofia in Sacramento. The gala celebrates the educators and community advocates who work tirelessly to ensure K-12 students have equitable access to arts and music programs.
“As a credit union founded by and for educators, we recognize the teachers who inspire creativity, build confidence, and make a lasting difference in students’ lives every day,” said Josh Smith, vice president of school and community relations at SchoolsFirst.
The partnership underscores a shared investment in the region’s schoolchildren. Allison Cagley, founding executive director of Friends of Sacramento Arts, expressed gratitude for the Credit Union’s long-standing friendship with the education community, noting that the collaboration is essential for advocating for the resources and connections needed to bring creative education into the classroom.
The credit union’s recent efforts also extended to San Diego County, where it supported the Department of Education’s Salute to Purple Star Schools event.
This initiative honors the educators, staff, and partners dedicated to serving military-connected students, a critical mission in a region that includes Camp Pendleton and serves more than 50,000 students from military families.
In these communities, school employees play a vital role in providing stability and opportunity for students who often face unique challenges due to their families’ service. By supporting the Purple Star Schools program, SchoolsFirst FCU continues to advocate for the professionals who create supportive environments for these students every day.
Whether through the opening of new branches to provide caring, personalized financial service or by sponsoring events that recognize the diverse needs of California’s student population, SchoolsFirst remains focused on its core identity. By investing in arts, supporting military families, and increasing neighborhood accessibility, the credit union continues to demonstrate its personal service to those who dedicate their lives to education.
