TUCSON, AZ / AGILITYPR.NEWS / December 15, 2025 / Tucson Federal Credit Union (TFCU) presented a $90,000 contribution to Kino School on December 15, 2025 in support of a campus expansion that will transform educational opportunities for students who learn differently.

The gift will fund the conversion of a 336-square-foot covered porch into a fully enclosed, climate-controlled, sound-insulated music classroom, unlocking critical capacity for the school's STEAM and arts curriculum.

Founded in 1976, Kino School has served as a nonprofit educational pillar in Tucson for students who have not found success in traditional settings. The K–12 institution maintains an 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio and focuses on individualized, project-based learning that emphasizes STEAM, arts, and emotional intelligence over standardized testing.

The school serves a high-needs population: nearly 90% of Kino families receive financial assistance, and over one-third of students have special needs—far exceeding state averages. Despite these challenges, Kino has built a reputation for meeting learners where they are and helping them thrive through hands-on, personalized education.

"Their mission to meet students where they are, and ensure students who learn differently or don't excel in a traditional classroom setting are not left behind is exceptional," stated TFCU President & CEO Matthew Gaspari.

"Kino operates on tight margins to keep tuition affordable and accessible so a gift like this is transformational. It allows us to expand capacity and serve more students, and importantly tells them that they matter, their education matters and their talent matters," stated Kino School Board President Mike Pollack.

"Music and the arts help students find their voice and confidence. This is a critical part of building a well rounded person, and we are excited and privileged to be able to help Kino continue doing this special work in a building built specifically for this purpose," continued TFCU President & CEO Matthew Gaspari.

The new music classroom will provide dedicated space for instrumental instruction, vocal performance, and music theory—programs that have been constrained by the school's current physical footprint. The project includes the installation of steel-stud walls, energy-efficient windows, HVAC systems, fire sprinklers, commercial-grade flooring, and acoustic treatments to create a professional learning environment.

Before the check presentation, TFCU President & CEO Matthew Gaspari, Community Liaisons and TFCU Gives Co-Chairs Robin Austin and John "Jax" Moyer, KINO School Director Vanessa Phillips, Assistant Director Caroline Champagne, and Board President and Treasurer Mike Pollack were given a tour by 8th Grader Jake. Touring the grounds on the 5 acre lot, guests saw the circular and open classrooms, central library, vegetable garden, animal enclosures, metal-working shop, and recreation areas for Lower Classes and Upper Classes.

Founded by teachers, education is an important mission value for Tucson Federal Credit Union. The gift represents TFCU's ongoing commitment to Southern Arizona's educational landscape and its belief that students of all learning styles deserve opportunities to succeed.