2020 Teacher Grant Awardees

Purpose of Initiative: The Teacher Grant programs is an extension of the Union City Alumni Association’s continuing efforts to support student success in education, in this case appreciation and support of teacher efforts. The specific purpose is support of individual teachers’ initiatives that expand students’ learning experience and are not currently possible within budget constraints. 

Fifth Annual Program: The 2019-2020 program was budgeted at $10,000, up from $8,000 in the previous year, This year’s budget is also $10,000 

Supported Projects: Maximum project guideline is $500. Projects under the maximum are helpful in sharing available budget dollars. Teacher sometimes collaborate on ideas, supporting a higher maximum. To discuss this possibility, contact Wendy Smith.

A Competitive Process: Because of limited funds, it is likely that not all grant requests can be supported. Selection will be based on professionalism of presentation, creativity and the Teacher Grant Committee’s assessment of student impact that will be realized via the project. It is also important that you indicate your minimum requirement to make the project happen in the event we must allocate available funds.

Eligibility: Submissions are invited from any active Union City school system teacher, K-12. 

Scope of Teachers’ Projects: Initiative, creativity and innovation are encouraged, aimed at extension of student education in a subject chosen by the teacher. If the primary purpose of the proposal is purchase or replacement of equipment, it is important to describe specific positive impact on students and the educational process — results that would not have otherwise been possible.

Examples of creative grant proposals are linkable (menu above/right). Advice and ideas are also widely available by online search.

Scroll a set of ACTUAL Proposals by UC Teachers

Submission Deadline: Wednesday, May 6, 2020

         Submit via the online form.  Click here. 

Approval of Submission: Upon submission, teachers will receive a confirmation email that includes details of the application. The Teacher Grant Committee will pre-screen submissions. If there are concerns about suitability, the Superintendent or Principal will be asked to review and approve.

Award/Recognition: Winning grants will be recognized at the Alumni Banquet, in May 2021. Recipient attendance is an opportunity for recognition and sends a message about program importance..  (PENDING, as of now. We will find ways for recognition if no banquet.)

Timing of Funding: Receipts for grant expenditures will be submitted to the Alumni Association between the first day of the school year and December 15, 2020. Reimbursement checks will be forwarded within seven days of submitted receipts.

Reporting Requirement: Grant winners will submit to the Alumni Association a summary of project execution and impact achieved. When possible, photographs of the project in action should be included. This report is due by February 28, 2021 and is a requirement for grant consideration for the following year.

A Team Effort: The Alumni Association uses Teacher Grant “success stories” to encourage Alumni financial support of the program. Early and enthusiastic reports of results are very helpful in this process.

--------------------------------------

Some online references for Grant ideas:

Peaceful Playgrounds

Nature Bridge

Teach Me Bridges