TEACHER GRANTS

APPLICATION PERIOD: 11/1/2024 through 2/1/2025

The Winnetka Public Schools Foundation (WPSF) is offering two larger-scale grant opportunities this year: Teacher Research Grants (TRG) and Teacher Initiative Grants (TIG).  The purpose of the grants is to fund ideas that implement the district mission in a way that enhances curriculum, applies innovative learning strategies, and/or supports creative endeavors. 

Teacher Research Grants

Teachers choose a research question that will inform the work of the District.  TRGs may be proposed to cover the span of one or two years.  

Teacher Initiative Grants

Teachers request funding for programs that are innovative and proposed to be beneficial to all students.  TIGs will sometimes lead to large-scale adoption when proven successful.

How Grants Are Funded

Creativity and innovation are regarded as core values for district staff and students, and the Foundation strongly encourages teachers and staff to keep those values in mind when applying for a grant. We have implemented a rolling grant process (timeline below) in order to support you in a more timely manner.   

GRANT DEFINITIONS: WPSF currently awards four categories of grants

  • Teacher Initiative Grants (TIGs): TIGs are requested by teachers specifically for innovation to achieve learning objectives in their classrooms. In some cases, these innovations are adopted across the district.

  • Core Plus Grants: Core Plus Grant funds support one big idea that is on the leading edge of teaching and learning that supports all content areas.

  • Artists in Residence Grants: Artist in Residence Grants provide students in each school the opportunity to interact with artists and other professionals to gain a greater understanding of the creative process. Interactions include author visits, storytellers, and various music, art, and dance groups.

  • Summer Institute Grants: The Summer Institute Grant funds a professional development workshop for D36 teachers and administrators every other year. Teachers, administrators, and School Board members work together on various topics to enhance the way they understand and work with students.