Funding
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.
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:
1.
Public
Funds:
Federal, state, and local money
(our taxes)
2.
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.
Keeping 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 or 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 for 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.
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.
Need
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.