SHEF Classroom Enrichment Grant

Geographic Scope: Somerset Hills School District (SHSD), New Jersey

SHEF has been a transformative force in the Somerset Hills for nearly three decades, providing more than a million dollars in funding to enhance educational experiences for K-12 students. The SHEF Classroom Enrichment Grant supports innovation and leadership among teachers and supports curriculum-based initiatives.

Funding Priorities

SHEF Top Funding Priorities include:

• Projects that support teachers in providing quality instruction
• Educational experiences that build skills around curriculum-linked themes
• Innovation and leadership among teachers
• Curriculum-based field trips (explicitly eligible)

Focus Areas

Funded programs include:

• Technology Integration: District-wide technology infrastructure including Chromebooks, LCD Projectors, SMARTboards, and comprehensive wireless systems
• STEM Education: Innovative science and engineering programs such as VEX Robot Kits, 3D Printers, Data Collection Equipment for Physics Labs, and engineering workshops
• Digital Learning: Subscriptions to learning platforms such as IXL Learning, Spellingcity.com, Reading A-Z, and Raz-Kids.com
• Arts & Humanities: Creative expression programs including "Around the World in Dance," iPad Music Instruction, Video Recording Equipment for Concerts, Art Printers, and cultural performances

Eligibility

• Teachers and principals in Somerset Hills School District
• Projects serving K-12 students

Application Requirements

Applications must:

• Articulate goals and broadly anticipated outcomes
• Identify the number of students impacted
• Define measurable learning outcomes
• Itemize costs
• Evaluate implementation for validity and practicality

Award and Selection Process

• Grants may range from $100 to $3,000
• SHEF may elect to fund projects in part or in full
• SHEF Review Committee meets monthly to review applications
• Award letters are mailed February 1st
• Winners' grants remain posted on the SHEF website through end of school year

Additional Requirements

• Grant Outcomes Report Agreement is required as a condition of funding
• Outcomes reports must include student notes and pictures
• Reports should be submitted on time

Application Process

Application Window: October 1 - November 30 (annually)

Submission Method: Online application portal

Application Steps

1. Review Guidelines: Consult SHEF Grant Guidelines and Instructions before applying
2. Complete Online Application: Submit application online during October 1 - November 30 window
3. Provide Project Details: Include as much detail as possible about your project
4. Specify Outcomes: Define measurable learning outcomes for your project
5. List Costs: Itemize all project costs
6. Identify Impact: Specify number of students to be impacted
7. Submit Outcomes Report Agreement: Agree to submit required Grant Outcomes Report
8. Choose Payment Method: Indicate preference for ClassWallet or check payment to school
9. Await Review: SHEF Review Committee meets monthly to review applications
10. Receive Award Letter: Award letters mailed February 1st

Required Materials

• Articulated goals and anticipated outcomes
• Number of students impacted
• Measurable learning outcomes
• Itemized costs
• Implementation plan addressing validity and practicality
• Grant Outcomes Report Agreement commitment
• Payment method preference (ClassWallet or check)

Notes

• Curriculum-based field trips are eligible for funding
• More detailed proposals are easier for the Grant Committee to evaluate
• Grants may be funded in part or in full at SHEF's discretion
• Outcomes reports must include student notes and pictures
• All funded grants are posted on SHEF website through end of school year for community engagement

Questions?

Contact SHEF Grant Coordinator at info@shefnj.org