CITE Foundation


Expanding Access to Technology Leadership in California Schools

The CITE Foundation is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization committed to expanding opportunities for the K-12 educational technology community across California. Our mission is to create pathways to learning and technology resources, to empower a healthy and thriving educational community.

To reduce barriers to participation, the Foundation is building a sustainable structure that supports professional development, training programs, and leadership growth—especially for underserved school districts and communities. By investing in the future of IT professionals in education, we help ensure that every student benefits from innovative and effective technology solutions.

The CITE Board of Directors formed the CITE Foundation in 2025, recognizing the need to increase access to CITE’s educational programs. This led to the launch of the Foundation as an independent organization, able to secure grants, and build partnerships that fuel education program expansion and scholarship opportunities.

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The CITE Foundation scholarships are more than financial aid; they are a direct commitment to empower the technology leaders in our schools. Together we invest in professional growth because every individual’s growth shapes the future of IT in every California classroom.

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Contributions to CITE Foundation and educational initiatives are welcomed at any time. Tax-deductible charitable donations pertaining to personal or corporate income taxes will become available following authorization by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), anticipated in 2026. Please be advised that donations made prior to IRS approval may not be eligible as deductible expenses.

CITE Foundation Scholarship

In 2026 the CITE Foundation will offer the following scholarships:

  • One (1) scholarship will be available for a member of Cohort 20. Application information will be sent to confirmed participants of this Cohort.
  • Scholarship includes tuition waiver and travel support ($2,500).
  • The 2027 CTOM application will open in May of 2026 and a scholarship will be available to one (1) applicant. 
  • Information, application, and scholarship details at: https://www.cite.org/ctom
  • Two (2) scholarships are available, one (1) each for the Spring and Fall Cohorts. 
  • Scholarship includes tuition waiver and travel support ($1,000). 
  • Information, application, and scholarship details at: https://www.cite.org/tmap
  • Two (2) scholarships are available, one (1) each for the Spring and Fall Cohorts. 
  • Scholarship includes tuition waiver.
  • Information, application, and scholarship details at: https://www.cite.org/kitt

"We are more than an organization; we are a community. These professional development scholarships reflect the CITE Foundation Board’s promise to be an active partner in your career, making a tangible investment in your growth as well as the future of technology in California education."

Erick Steelman, CCTO, Chief Technology & Innovation Officer, El Monte Union High School District & CITE Foundation, Board of Director


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For questions or additional information please contact foundation@CITE.org 


About the CITE Foundation

The CITE Foundation is a tax-exempt organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for the K-12 technology community. Founded to enhance access to CITE Education Programs through scholarships and new program growth. This strategic initiative aims to establish a structured and sustainable platform for receiving tax-deductible donations, securing grants, and building external partnerships.

CITE Foundation Vision

Our community has equitable access to opportunities and resources, creating a dynamic and highly skilled technology workforce.

CITE Foundation Mission

Our mission is to create pathways to learning and technology resources, empowering a healthy and thriving educational community.

CITE Foundation Core Values

Learning — We believe learning for our community and members is continuous and lifelong.

Community — We believe a strong community supports the abilities of all of our members and that our community has the talent to solve any problem.

Philanthropy — We believe contributions from the community create access to learning opportunities for all individuals.

Resources — We believe providing our community with advanced resources strengthens both schools and student experience.

Who We Are

The CITE Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors. Officers include:

CITE Foundation Board

  • David Thurston
    David Thurston
    Assistant Superintendent San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (909)386-2425
  • Maggie Bunten
    Maggie Bunten
    CCTO Administrator, Technology JPA | BEST NET/CECC San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (909)386-9600
  • Antonio Romayor, Jr.
    Antonio Romayor, Jr.
    CCTO, CCIO, M.Ed. Chief Operations Officer Imperial County Office of Education
  • Jon Carrino
    Jon Carrino
    Assistant Superintendent of Business Services William S. Hart Union High School District 661-259-0033 x254
  • Erick W Steelman
    Erick W Steelman
    CCTO Chief Technology & Innovation Officer El Monte Union High School District (626)444-9005

CITE Foundation Staff

  • Laurel Nava
    Laurel Nava
    Deputy Executive Director CITE (916)704-0898
    Executive Director of the CITE Foundation
  • Sokontheara Hul
    Sokontheara Hul
    Executive Specialist CITE
  • Rosie Talcott
    Rosie Talcott
    Director of Education Programs CITE (916)709-6186
  • Ailene Chang
    Ailene Chang
    Senior Manager of Education Programs CITE
  • Ty Ishimoto
    Ty Ishimoto
    Education Programs Specialist CITE (916)917-4791
  • Alesha Walker
    Alesha Walker
    Education Programs Manager CITE
  • Andrew Hawkins
    Andrew Hawkins
    Education Programs Specialist CITE