MANCHESTER, N.H. — Nearly 100 new teachers in New Hampshire’s largest school district received a warm welcome this fall thanks to a partnership between nonprofit Kula Cares and Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). The initiative, part of SNHU’s Back to School Teacher Supply Drive, provided classroom supply boxes valued at approximately $100 each to incoming educators.
The supply boxes were distributed during a two-day orientation for new staff, serving as a “surprise and delight” moment that underscored the community’s commitment to supporting educators. The collaboration was facilitated by Manchester Proud, a local education advocacy group.
“This meaningful gesture during orientation truly embodies the spirit of care and collaboration that strengthens our schools,” said Leslie Whitney, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for the Manchester School District.
Founded in 2019 as Kula Crate and later transitioned to nonprofit status, Kula Cares focuses on providing essential supplies to underserved schools. The organization was invited to join SNHU’s back-to-school efforts following its successful distribution of supply boxes to 135 elementary classrooms in Manchester last year.
“By providing these comprehensive welcome boxes, we didn’t just give materials — we showed these educators that this community values and supports their dedication,” said Nicole Cate, SNHU’s Community Impact Program Manager.
Kula Cares co-founder Karl Alterman, a Manchester native, emphasized the personal significance of the partnership. “Supporting new teachers in the place where I grew up, alongside an institution like SNHU, represented everything we hoped to achieve when we founded this organization,” Alterman said.
The welcome boxes included essential classroom supplies and educational resources designed to help teachers create engaging learning environments. The initiative also highlighted the interconnected nature of Manchester’s educational ecosystem, with SNHU providing student teaching placements and actively supporting district initiatives.
Kula Cares’ technology partner, SilverTech, also based in Manchester, further strengthened the local collaboration.
“What started as our first year in Manchester has blossomed into meaningful partnerships that we hope will continue for years to come,” Alterman added.
For more information, visit http://www.kulacares.org.