WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin has opened the application process for this year’s Beyond Pencils and Crayons grants.
Program Officer Sue Nelson says the funds are marked for teachers that are thinking outside the box when it comes to education. “They may have an idea that over or above their normal curriculum.”
This means teachers can’t use the money for regular classroom supplies or books. Instead, they are encouraged to submit ideas such as learning tools, software, or anything else that would provide a learning experience outside of a normal book.
“It may be an innovative, creative idea that a science teacher or an art teacher has. Maybe a gym teacher has a different way that they want to provide something for their students.”
Nelson adds that oftentimes these items are not part of a school’s typical budget so teachers find it difficult to get them approved. They may also pay for some such items out of their own pockets.
Previously the program has funded ideas such as drum kits for a PE teacher who wanted to incorporate music and movement into their lesson plans. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) projects have also been funded if they meet the criteria.
This year the fund will be making $25,000 available to teachers. Each applicant can ask for up to $5,000, meaning five or more projects will be funded.
The program is open to K-12 teachers in Marathon County schools only. The deadline to apply is September 30th. Nelson says the application can be found online, and any questions can be directed to her at the Community Foundation.
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