Funding Sources To Supplement Tightening School Budgets
Congress and the Department of education have placed themselves squarely behind the idea that technology is important to changing America’s education system into one that can serve the nation’s needs more fully. The Legislature has shown signs of supporting the movement and the Educators Department indicates a clear commitment to support technology use in schools.
It is clear, investing in technology will help secure a better future for our children.
Like most educators you are probably learning about the latest technology tools, from computers with CD-ROM’s and modems, to interactive video programs, CD-ROM’s and videodiscs, to distance learning networks. Or, you may have attended an inspiring seminar only to return to your school which has no money for more technology.
In a time when school budgets are being stretched to their limits, you wonder how your school will ever be able to purchase the sophisticated, expensive technology that administrators, parents, or local school board members may view as unnecessary.
Where can your school get needed money?
A creative approach to the traditional funding sources opens many doors. Beyond the school’s operating budget, money to purchase some of this advanced technology is available from two reservoirs:
- Public Funds: Federal, state, and local money (our taxes)
- Private Funds: Grants and donations from corporations, foundations and individuals
The funding sources may be national, regional, or local. They can range from the local supermarket to Rotary to General Motors Corporation.
Actually, there are more grants available than you might expect.
Keep in mind that grantors are more often interested in the project’s curriculum than the technology. On the other hand, although they understand that the curriculum drives the technology purchases, computer companies such IBM, Apple, Compaq, Zenith and Dell, as well as other technology companies, are committed to education. However, the hardware companies often like to hear more about your needs from the technology side.
Tap into these resources with adequate research and comprehensive preparation – but be prepared for competition.
Research diligently to match the right grant to your school. The match is the key to the project’s success. Call to find out the grantor’s procedure. Ask for a "request for proposal" (RFP).
Often a concept paper is required before one proceeds with the extensive proposal writing.
The Proposal
Cover Page: The title should be prominent. It should be precise and descriptive and convey the focus of the proposed project. Also include: The school and district names and a phone and fax number for the contact person.
Table of Contents: Include the major sections of the proposal. Illustrations, graphs, tables, etc., can be included if they are important in themselves.
Description of project: Try to keep this short. A page at the longest, a paragraph or two is better.
Needs Statement: Convey in a descriptive and documented statement why the program is needed. Describe it in local, regional, and national terms, and sound urgent. Send the most powerful message you can, and back up the statement with as convincing statistics, thorough research, and expert opinions as can be compiled. Employ your most persuasive writer or writers to this task. Content and clarity make a big difference.
Mission Statement: State the school’s goals, relating them as closely to those of the granting agency as possible. Let the giver know not only the specific project aims, but also how those goals relate to ongoing school programs.
The Mechanics: Tell the fund giver how the program will operate. Describe the director’s, staff’s and consultant’s ability to carry out the mission, and the responsibilities each are assigned.
Timeline: Give the program a start and end, and outline when the various proposed steps will occur. Indicate those activities that continue through the duration of the program.
Supplemental Funds: It is often prudent to let the giver know that you are eager and exploring other funding sources. Cite in-kind, past and prospective, funding sources. Sound the praises of what the school has contributed and accomplished to date.
- Assessment: Convey how the school will measure the success of the program. Show a relationship between the objectives, mission, and timetable.
- Be specific: Use traditional assessment indicators, and authentic assessment to build your case.
- Spreading the news: It is important that the giver get recognition. List as many methods at your disposal for sharing news of your project. Include such school-based means as open houses, newsletters, school fairs, parent letters, e-mail, classroom prodigy and journals as well as coverage in outside media: radio or newspapers.
Budget: A realistic financial picture is important. How do you plan to spend the grant money? The costs should be reasonable and itemized. Making this section clear with charts and descriptions is essential. In some instances, it may be necessary to contact the agency to get forms.
Appendixes: This section should include endorsements, demographic information, maps, and additional materials required b the grant source.
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