Even during extraordinary times, educators remain dedicated to nurturing students' knowledge and understanding of academic concepts and the world they live in, their communities, and the many opportunities they have to excel. Even in changing contexts, educators are inspiring and supporting students' critical thinking, social and emotional learning, cultural understanding, and preparation for the future. The NEA Foundation wants to support educators engaging students in project-based and deeper learning to support the development of skills and dispositions contributing to success and fulfillment in a changing world. The NEA Foundation believes public education should stimulate students' curiosity and excitement about learning and help them become successful 21st-century global citizens. Funds may be used for:
The majority of funds must be used for materials or educational experiences for children. Funds may also be used to support the professional development that is necessary to implement projects. Preference is given to proposals that incorporate STEM and/or global learning into projects.
Grant funds cannot be used to pay indirect costs, grant administration fees, salaries, applicant stipends, conference fees for more than one person, or lobbying or religious purposes. Funds may not be used to:
Grants are available to current members of the National Education Association who are educators in public schools or public institutions of higher education. They especially encourage education support professionals to apply. Education support professionals can be classified as: para-educators, school bus drivers, maintenance and custodial staff, food services staff, school nurses and student services workers, clerical and office assistants, school security officers, and technicians.
There are three application periods per year
Awards are $1,500 or $5,000. Awards will last for 12 months.