Innovative Learning Grants

Geographic Scope: Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS), Virginia

Focus Areas: Creative and innovative curricular development for K-12 classrooms that goes beyond typical school budgets. Eligible projects include:

• STEAM/STEM education
• Literacy and reading initiatives
• Arts and music programs
• Social-emotional learning
• Hands-on, experiential learning
• Technology integration
• Language development
• Physical and health education

Program Status: Active. For 2025-2026 school year, REFI awarded $34,752 in classroom grants supporting elementary, middle, and high school classrooms throughout RCPS.

Eligibility:

• RCPS teachers (elementary, middle, and high school)
• Classroom-based projects

What They Fund:

• Instructional materials and supplies
• Equipment and technology
• Professional development and training
• Student experiences and field trips
• Creative classroom enhancements

Contact Information:

• Email: REFI@rcps.net
• Phone: (540) 564-3218
• Address: 100 Mount Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22802

Background: REFI's grant program supports the evidence that RCPS teachers are willing to go above and beyond their educational calling to encourage students to learn, have fun, and become caring individuals.

Application Process

Submission Method: Online application required

Required Materials:

1. Project Proposal/Abstract - Description of the innovative learning project
2. Project Details - Explanation of how project supports creative and innovative curricular development
3. Budget Justification - Breakdown of requested funding
4. Learning Outcomes - Expected student learning outcomes and benefits

Key Application Components:

• Clear articulation of how project goes beyond typical school budget
• Demonstration of creativity and innovation
• Evidence of student benefit and engagement
• Detailed budget with itemization of expenses

Note: Specific deadline for 2026-2027 applications not provided in materials; contact REFI directly for application timeline.