Classroom & Program Grants

Classroom & Program Grants

Funder: OTHS Endowment Fund Ltd (O'Fallon Township High School)

Geographic Scope: O'Fallon Township High School, O'Fallon, Illinois (both Milburn and Smiley Campuses)

Purpose: The O'Fallon Township High School Endowment Fund provides financial support for the implementation of sustainable, long-term education programs that provide students with enhanced educational opportunities not available from local, state or federal programs, resources, or tax dollars.

Funding Overview:

Fund generates more than $30,000 annually for classroom grants

$600,000+ in grants awarded since inception

2024-2025 award total: Over $124,800

Recent awards include technology (Surface Pros, ViewBoards, VR sets, drones), equipment (3D printers, telescopes), furniture, and program support

Eligibility

• Open to OTHS faculty/staff proposing programs for students
• Programs must enhance educational opportunities beyond existing school curriculum
• Applicant must identify responsible implementation staff

Funding Criteria

Grants support:
• New or enhanced educational programs that expand learning opportunities
• Equipment and technology that improves student access to learning
• Sustainable programs that can continue beyond initial funding
• High-impact initiatives benefiting large cross-sections of students

Grants DO NOT fund:

Salary costs or supplements for teachers or OTHS staff

Routine educational supplies normally provided by the school system (textbooks, etc.)

Programs heavily dependent on expendable materials

Non-sustainable, one-time initiatives without continuation plans

Evaluation Factors

• Significance to Students/School: Does it expand opportunities, make learning fun/accessible, benefit large student populations?
• Student Impact: How many students benefit in a single school year? (More is better)
• Cost-Effectiveness: Affordability and best pricing
• Sustainability: Documented plan for program continuation without ongoing OEF funding
• Budget Detail: Itemized costs with receipts

Key Guidelines

• Proposals must document need beyond Board of Education responsibility
• Address staff availability and training needs
• Include performance objectives to measure success
• Reimbursement requires submission of receipts within one calendar year (by June 29 of awarded year)
• If items purchased for less than approved amount, savings remain with Endowment Fund

Contact: OTHSEndowmentFund@gmail.com
Address: 600 Smiley Street, O'Fallon, IL 62269