HEF Classroom Grants

Geographic Scope: Holland Public Schools, Michigan

Eligibility: All Holland Public School employees

Focus Areas:

• Experiential learning
• Teacher wellness
• Classroom materials and supplies
• Educational equipment and technology
• Field trips and extracurricular support
• Staff recognition and support

Past Funded Projects (2023): Cameras and peripherals for broadcast classes, visual supports, disc golf course, book vending machines, flexible seating, field trips, STEM manipulatives, art supplies, headphones, kiln, nature center trips, conflict-resolution curriculum, games and manipulatives, sensory rooms, hydroponic systems, CPR mannequins, and various classroom materials and resources.

Contact Information:

• Email: kbolt@hollandpublicschools.org
• Address: 320 W 24th St, Holland, MI 49423
• Questions about applications: Email Wendy Schregardus

Review Schedule: Board reviews applications in mid-October and mid-February with award announcements shortly thereafter.

HEF Grant Application Process

Deadline: Friday, January 23 at 5 pm (Next deadline: January 23, 2027)

Application Steps:

1. Make a copy of the HEF Grant Application Google doc
2. Complete all questions on the grant application form
3. Pay particular attention to itemized budget—include shipping and handling costs (even if estimated); do not include taxes
4. Share access to your Google doc with your principal or email a PDF to your principal for approval
5. If approved, your principal will forward the application to HEF
6. HEF will notify you when your grant application has been received
7. If no confirmation email within a few days of submission, contact your principal

Required Information:

• Project description (succinct, avoiding unexplained jargon/acronyms)
• Indication of whether this is a new item, pilot program, or already proven in other classrooms/district/elsewhere
• Explanation of alignment with district-approved curricula
• Itemized Budget (very important)—list specific items with exact costs, include shipping and handling, do not include tax
• Success measurement method (state assessments, classroom assessments, project/student evaluations, parent input, increased participation, motivation, enthusiasm, etc.)
• Information on other funding sources applied for (HPS PTO, district booster groups, etc.)
• Optional: informational websites, research supporting materials, details about existing classroom/building/district technology, additional project goals

Tips for Success:

• Answer all questions completely
• Have someone edit/review for content and clarity
• Consider collaborating with staff from other classrooms/buildings on similar requests
• Describe project clearly without assuming familiarity with educational jargon
• Provide detailed itemized budget with exact costs
• Clearly explain how success will be measured