The NEA Foundation is offering grants of $2,000 for individuals and $5,000 for groups to fund "big ideas."
Practicing teachers in grades K-12, higher education faculty and support professionals are encouraged to apply by Feb. 1 for the next grant cycle. Applications are accepted on a year-round basis, and reviewed Feb. 1, June 1 and Sept. 15. Grants provide funding for activities taking place in the 12 months following the award date.
Innovation Grants fund project-based learning and break-the-mold innovations that significantly improve achievement for underserved students. Awards of $5,000 support collaborative efforts by two or more colleagues to develop and implement creative project-based learning that results in high student achievement. The proposed work should engage students in critical thinking and problem solving that deepen their knowledge of standards-based subject matter. The work should also improve students' habits of inquiry, self-directed learning, and critical reflection.
Learning and Leadership Grants provide opportunities to engage in high-quality professional development and lead colleagues in professional growth. Grants to individuals ($2,000) fund participation in high-quality professional development experiences, such as summer institutes or action research. Grants to groups ($5,000) fund collegial study, including study groups, action research, lesson study, or mentoring experiences for faculty or staff new to an assignment. All professional development must improve practice, curriculum, and student achievement.
Grants are available for all subjects, including the arts, literacy, science, and technology.
For complete program details, guidelines, applications and examples of funded projects, visit the foundation's website [www.neafoundation.org] or call (202) 822-7840.
Grants are funded in part by Staples Recycle for Education.