Nila Banton Smith Teacher as Researcher Grant

Nila Banton Smith Teacher as Researcher Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: International Literacy Association
Amount: US $2,000
Last Updated: August 22, 2025

Summary

The Nila Banton Smith Teacher as Researcher Grant, offered by the International Literacy Association, provides $2,000 biennially to pre-K–12 teachers conducting research in literacy instruction. This grant supports educators who demonstrate exceptional leadership in integrating theory and practice. Applicants must be ILA members in good standing and can apply for multiple grants, but can only accept one research award per year. This initiative emphasizes equitable access to literacy as a fundamental right.

Overview

This award will be offered again in August 2026. Mission Statement ILA connects research and practice to improve the quality of literacy learning across the globe in ways that are respectful, responsive, and ethical. We advocate for equitable access to literacies among individuals of all ages and diverse communities as a basic human right and a matter of social justice. Nila Banton Smith Teacher as Researcher Grant The International Literacy Association (ILA) Nila Banton Smith Teacher as Researcher Grant is a US$2,000 grant given biennially to teachers who conduct research inquiries in their classrooms and show outstanding leadership in connecting theory and current research to practice in literacy instruction.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Applicants must be practicing pre-K–12 teachers with full-time or permanent half-time teaching responsibilities. This includes, but is not limited to, classroom teachers, librarians, Title I teachers, literacy coaches, specialists, and resource teachers. To be eligible, all applicants (including co-applicants) must be ILA members in good standing and maintain active membership through June 30, 2026. Please note that candidates may apply for more than one ILA research grant but are limited to accepting only one research award per year. You must be a member of this organization to apply for this award - become a member.