Summer seminars at the library

The Cullman Center Institute for Teachers is accepting applications to its popular three-week Summer Seminars at the New York Public Library’s landmark building on Fifth Avenue. They are offering workshops in creative writing (July 13–17) and nonfiction journalism (July 27–31) and a seminar on Tolstoy’s great novel “War and Peace” (July 20–24). Participants get a private office for the week, breakfast and lunch each day and a $300 stipend. Space is limited, so apply early. All educators are welcome, but priority is given to English teachers, history teachers, librarians and administrators from New York City public middle and high schools.

DEADLINE: April 12.
CONTACT: Cullman Center Institute

Get projects, materials

The Association of American Educators is seeking applications for the Foundation Classroom Grants program. The program provides support for a variety of projects and materials including, but not limited to, books, software, calculators, math manipulatives, art supplies, audiovisual equipment, and lab materials. Full-time educators who have not received a scholarship or grant from the association in the previous three grant cycles (or 18 months) can apply for grants of up to $500.

DEADLINE: Oct. 1.
CONTACT: awards@aaeteachers.org; Association of American Educators

Money for proven programs

The Kids in Need Foundation is looking for applications for the 2015 Elmer’s Teacher Tool Kit Grants program. Certified K–12 teachers who want to replicate already proven projects in their classroom during the 2015–16 school year can apply for grants between $100 and $500. The program seeks to support teachers and project learning education. The grants can be used toward activities found on the Elmer’s Teacher Tool Kit website.

DEADLINE: Applications accepted from July 15 to Sept. 30.
CONTACT: info@kinf.org; Kids in Need Foundation

Thank you, ‘Captain’

The Captain Planet Foundation is seeking applications for its EcoTech grants program. The program supports projects that integrate environmental education with opportunities for children to solve real-world problems by using science practices and technology to care for the environment. Schools and nonprofit organizations can apply for grants of up to $2,000. Projects may replicate successful models or create new and innovative approaches. Preference will be given to student-directed projects that promise deliverables that will make the project easy to replicate by others, such as lesson plans, protocols, videos and examples of student work.

DEADLINE: April 30.
CONTACT: kathy@captainplanetfoundation.org; EcoTech grants

Promoting critical thinking

The NEA Foundation provides grants to improve the academic achievement of students in U.S. public schools and public higher education institutions in any subject areas. The proposed work should engage students in critical thinking and problem solving that deepens their knowledge of standards-based subject matter. The work should also improve students’ habits of inquiry, self-directed learning and critical reflection. Pre-K–12 educators can apply for grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000. Grant funds may be used for resource materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, technology or scholars-in-residence. Although some funds may be used to support the professional development necessary to implement the project, the majority of grant funds must be spent on materials or educational experiences for students.

DEADLINE: June 1; notification by Sept. 15.
CONTACT: NEA Foundation

Let the music play

Classics for Kids Foundation offers matching grants toward the purchase of high-quality stringed instruments and mentoring to nonprofit music programs serving young people in grades 3–12. The foundation works only with instrument providers that assure the highest craftsmanship, sound and ease of playing so that young players gain the fullest benefit with their instrument. If your school or nonprofit organization believes in the role of fine instruments in your program and can show evidence of need and commitment to raising matching funds, you are a strong candidate for the Classics for Kids matching grant program.

DEADLINE: June 30.
CONTACT: Classics for Kids

Tell your students’ parents

PTO Today’s Parent Group of the Year Contest is an excellent opportunity for parent groups to showcase their hard work while giving their school the chance to win cash and prizes. Maximum award: $3,000. Eligibility: all parent groups — PTO, PTA, HSA, PTC, etc.; public and private schools; rural, suburban and urban schools.

DEADLINE: June 1.
CONTACT: PTO Today