INSTRUCTIONAL GRANTS

Instructional Grants

Grants are not intended for items normally provided by Dare County Schools (such as salaries or furniture) or for expenses that aren't directly tied to classroom learning. Please note that food items and snacks are not eligible expenses under the grant funding guidelines. If you're seeking funding for field trips, clubs, academic competitions, or similar enrichment opportunities, please apply for our Supplemental Education Grant. If you're applying as a team, please have one lead applicant submit the application for the group.

Any grant that includes technology (hardware or software) that connects to the network, or district device, uses a district account, or collects/stores student data must be approved prior to applying for the grant. Teachers can secure this approval by submitting a ticket in IIQ.

For Software Requests:

Visit the DCS Software Library (DCS website and linked in DCS DTL Hub) to see if the software is already approved for student/staff use.

If not, submit an IIQ Ticket for software approval using this pathway: Create Ticket > Other > Approval Request for New Software (all fields are required).

*For funding source, indicate that this is a pending DEF Grant.

For Hardware Requests:

Submit an IIQ Ticket for hardware approval using this pathway: Create Ticket > Other > Request New Equipment (all fields are required).

If applicable, please include any software that is necessary to operate specific hardware. *For funding source, indicate that this is a pending DEF Grant.

Thank you for everything you do for Dare County students. We appreciate the opportunity to support your work and look forward to reviewing your application!

Whole-School Grants

The Dare Education Foundation Whole School Grant Program provides three schools with up to $10,000 in funding for innovative projects that positively impact an entire school community.

Grants are intended to support creative educational opportunities beyond what is available through the regular school budget.

Preference may be given to projects that:

• Benefit an entire school or multiple grade levels

• Support innovative teaching and learning

• Increase student engagement and achievement

• Promote collaboration among educators

• Build community partnerships

• Can be sustained beyond the grant period

STEP 1: Brainstorm Brilliant Ideas

Before you start typing away on your application, take a moment to let those creative juices flow. Scan your curriculum, think outside the box, and brainstorm project ideas that could make a real difference in student learning. Please note that projects should focus on areas other than meals, entertainment, salaries, furniture, or transportation.

STEP 2: Collaborate or Go Solo?

Feeling inspired? Now, it's time to chat with your fellow educators. Collaborating can strengthen your application, so team up if you find kindred spirits in the staff room.

STEP 3: Connect with your Principal

Next stop: your school administrator's office. Share your enthusiasm and project vision. Ask if there's funding available from your school, PTO, or Booster Club. It's all about covering your bases and exploring every avenue of support.

STEP 4: Craft Your Application

Click the Apply Now button below to start drafting your application.

STEP 5: Compare with the Rubric

Our Programs Committee will use a rubric to assess your application, just like the ones you use to assess your students. Compare your application with this rubric to ensure you're hitting all the right notes. It's like having a cheat sheet to ace the game!

FEELING STUCK?

We're here to help you turn your classroom dreams into reality. Remember, we're just a click away if you need guidance or support during your grant writing process. Email us at info@dareeducationfoundation.org.