Why classroom grants to teachers?

The Foundation and our entire community believe that directly supporting teachers is one of the best ways to help students achieve and succeed.

Classroom Grants are designed to meet the following goals:

• increase student engagement, motivation, and exposure to new concepts and ideas
• bridge the “opportunity gap” to allow all students to reach their full potential through enriched learning environments
• strengthen teaching tools and strategies in core academic subjects, including the arts
• encourage collaboration and professional development among teachers
• increase parent and community involvement in our schools

Who may apply?

Any pre-K – 12 teacher (team projects are encouraged!) or principal in the Berkeley Unified School District may apply. Other school or District personnel, specialists, and resource staff also are eligible to apply for a project related to pre-K – 12.

Priority is given to projects that effectively impact the most students per dollar granted.

WHAT may grants be used for?

Grant projects must directly benefit students during the 2011-12 school year. Grants can be used for materials and supplies, curriculum support, new technology, visiting professionals, field trips, professional development—anything that will enhance your teaching and your students’ learning. Given our limited resources, we traditionally do not fund food for parties or snacks, or the purchase of awards.

WHEN are applications accepted?

The Foundation typically awards Classroom Grants once a year. The application period for the 2011-12 school year is now closed. Award notifications are mailed in late November, along with a grant agreement and forms for requesting your funds. A signed grant agreement confirming the precise use of the funds and the designated payees must be returned before any award check(s) will be distributed.

Successful applicants will be honored at our annual Teachers’ Reception, this year on Friday, December 2, 2011.  Award checks are mailed from the BPEF office on a rolling basis as signed agreements are received.

How do I apply?

All applicants are required to use our online application, which is available during the application period. We are happy to assist you in this process. Please call 510-644-6244 or email us at bpef@berkeley.net. For best results, please refer to our Grant Application Tips and Pitfalls.

Please do not wait until the last day to begin your grant application. If you experience problems while entering or submitting your grant, we are more likely to be able to help you resolve them if you are entering it ahead of the application deadline.

Grant applications must be entered and submitted online. You can save and modify your application until you wish to submit it. Once submitted, you should receive a confirmation email. NOTE: If you do NOT receive a confirmation email, please notify the BPEF office immediately, via phone or email, as this may indicate that your application was not submitted.

For grant ideas and inspiration, listen to what some BPEF grantees have done with their grant funds.

Application period for 2011-12 grants is now closed

Click here to see a complete list of past year’s grants.

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