National University will launch a nine-school partnership to support PreK-12 student learning and development, KPBS News reported.

The San Diego-based institution recently received an anonymous $20 million gift for the national expansion of the school's Sanford Education Center. It's the largest contribution ever received by the University in its 44-year history. The gift combined with a 50 percent matching contribution from National University, raises the total amount to $30 million.

"We are so grateful for this historic gift, which together with previous gifts is creating a truly transformative effect for children and teachers in our schools and classrooms," Dr. Michael R. Cunningham, president of National University and chancellor of the National University System, said in a statement. "We are honored to carry out the vision of Denny Sanford, whose impact on society will last for generations."

The Center's initiatives include the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy, dedicated to increasing the fundraising capacity of nonprofits, as well as the national expansion of two education programs, Sanford Harmony (PreK-6) and Sanford Inspire (PreK-12), KPBS News reported.

The funds will be used on two programs: the Sanford Harmony program and Sanford Inspire. Sanford Harmony's objectives is to strengthen social and emotional development among children in grades Prek to six, while Sanford Inspire focuses on teachers, providing them with access to research-based teaching methodologies and approaches designed to create inspiring classroom experiences.

National University's Sanford Education Programs are estimated to serve more than 50,000 teachers, and as a result, impact more than 650,000 Pre-K through 12th grade students by their fifth year of operation.