Arizona Public Service is expanding its Supply My Class program, enabling more public and charter school teachers within APS territory to apply for a chance to win a $500 virtual gift card to buy classroom supplies.

APS launched the Supply My Class program in 2018 and has since awarded more than 5,500 teachers funding to buy basic school supplies, refresh their classrooms and more. It is an effort, officials said, to help the more than 90% of teachers who according to the National Education Association are using their own money to buy supplies for students.

Tina Marie Tentori, director of community affairs for APS, said it is one way the utility could help to support educators around the state.

“Teachers inspire, guide, and equip students with the life lessons and skills that shape their futures,” she said. “The APS Supply My Class program is just one way we can support these educators who are encouraging the next generation.”

To enter, K-12 public and charter school teachers within APS’s service territory can visit aps.com/SupplyMyClass by 11:59 a.m. Aug. 11. Applying takes about 60 seconds. Winners will be randomly selected and notified by APS by Oct. 4 about how to retrieve their gift cards.

Full-time K-12 teachers at public and charter schools in APS service territory are eligible, including previous winners.

This program is funded by APS shareholders and is not included in customer rates.