Teacher Grant Program

The WCEF Teacher Grant Program supports teacher innovation and student exploration through funding for innovative projects that enhance and support 21st century learning in the Walnut Creek School District (WCSD).

Mission Alignment: The program supports the district's mission to inspire a community of learners empowered to positively engage with the world through discovery, innovation, creativity, leadership, and character.

Geographic Scope: Walnut Creek School District (WCSD), California

Eligible Applicants:

• Individuals or teams employed by WCSD

Award Amounts:

• TK through Grade 5: Up to $1,000
• Grades 6-8: Up to $2,000
• At least one project at each school will be funded

Focus Areas:

• Projects must primarily support activities related to the instructional day
• 21st century learning initiatives
• Innovative projects that enhance student learning and exploration

Allowable Expenses:

• Materials and supplies
• Contractors/consultants
• Training
• Technology
• Other items needed for the project

What WCEF Does NOT Fund:

• Gift cards
• Expenses already funded by school budget, PTA, PTO, or parent group budget

Program Details:

• All materials, supplies, technology, or other items purchased become property of the school
• Awardees must submit: completed reflection questionnaire, digital video or photos of the project, and receipts for all expenses to receive reimbursement
• Awardees may be asked to showcase projects via social media or in-person presentations
• First year (2019): 46 applications for $44,000+ received; 21 grants for $20,000 total funded

Contact:

• Sandra Naughton
• Email: [email protected]

Background:
WCEF launched this pilot program in 2019 in partnership with WCSD to support teacher innovation and expand the partnership between the foundation and the school district.

Application Process

Timeline (2019 Pilot Program):
1. October 16, 2019: Online applications due by 5pm
2. Late October 2019: Selected applicants posted on WCSD and WCEF websites
3. November - May 29, 2019: Teacher Grant Pilot awards must be spent

Application Submission:

Complete the application via Google Form (link available on WCEF website)

Submit by 5:00 PM on the deadline date

Selection Process:
1. Applications scored individually by review panel of approximately 15-20 people
2. Panel includes: parents, WCSD representatives, WCEF representatives
3. Each WCSD school represented on panel
4. Panelists use provided rubric to score applications
5. Review panel recommends projects to WCSD and WCEF leadership
6. WCSD and WCEF leadership determine final awardees

Post-Award Requirements:
1. Submit completed reflection questionnaire
2. Provide digital video or photos of the project
3. Submit receipts for all expenses
4. May be asked to showcase project via social media or in-person presentations

For Questions:
Contact Sandra Naughton at [email protected]