(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - In a display of dedication going beyond the classroom, K-through-12 Educators from Local Unions affiliated with New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) have raised more than $2 million to help make higher education more accessible for their students.

“These Educators are sending a powerful message to their students: We believe in you,” NYSUT President Melinda Person said. “Every student deserves the chance to pursue their dreams. Our educators are opening doors to brighter futures for New York’s children and we could not be prouder.”

Every year, NYSUT Members award scholarships to thousands of students through creative fundraising efforts, including dress-down days, pizza parties, car washes, plant sales and other events.

The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) - NYSUT’s Local representing New York City educators, awarded nearly $1 million in scholarships.

On Long Island, NYSUT Educators in Nassau and Suffolk Counties contributed $500,000, with the Central Islip Teachers Association alone raising $91,000.

Downstate, NYSUT Locals from the mid-Hudson and Tarrytown Regions raised more than $200,000, of which the Clarkstown Teachers Association contributed $39,000.

In Western New York, Locals raised another $100,000 and, in the Capital Region, Locals collected roughly $115,000.