CPSF Grant Applications for 2009 – 2010

Columbia Public Schools Foundation Grant Program for 2009-10

Grant Program Description

The Grant Program allows applicants (Columbia Public Schools District Curriculum/Program Coordinators or Cohort Principals) to apply for funding of projects costing up to $25,000.

Applicants must demonstrate how their proposals support the Columbia Schools Foundation goals:
• Enhance academic excellence in the public schools by providing funding not available through public sources.
• Expand learning opportunities for our children.
• Stimulate creativity and innovation.
• Enrich the school district’s curriculum.
• Encourage community and business involvement in the public schools.
Grant proposals must align with the three Columbia Public Schools Board of Education goals:
• Increase student achievement
• Eliminate achievement disparities between subgroups of students
• Maximize resources

Grant proposals must also align with the district curriculum, support improved academic achievement, and enhance learning opportunities for the participating students. Significant consideration will be given to the number of students (current and future) who will benefit directly or indirectly, the potential to enhance academic excellence, and the cost effectiveness of the project. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit grant proposals that can be sustained over time and have a classroom focus. Grant proposals must demonstrate alignment to one or more of the following: Board of Education goals, CSIP objectives (CSIP link: http://www.columbia.k12.mo.us/reports/csip0409.pdf), cohort goals, and/or school improvement goals. It is not the intention of this grant program to fund projects that are the school district’s responsibility.

All grant proposals are evaluated by an Allocation Committee appointed by the Foundation Board of Directors. The Allocation Committee, composed of community members, operates independently of the Columbia Board of Education. Members and family members of the Foundation Board of Directors are not eligible to participate in the School Grant Program Application process. Final approval of grant awards rests with the Foundation Board of Directors.

The grant deadline is March 20, 2009.