Best K–12 Education Grants

The Fall Education Grant Cycle, offered by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, aims to support new teachers in rural areas of southeastern Illinois. With a focus on enhancing the quality of education, this initiative addresses the looming teacher shortage, especially in STEM and special needs. Grants of $200 are available for 1st and 2nd-year K-12 teachers, promoting the development of educators who are community-oriented and equipped to tackle the unique challenges of rural education.

The ID Science Education Grant Program, administered by the Idaho State Department of Education, provides matching grants for K-12 STEM education initiatives. With an appropriation of $24,100 for FY2026, this program aims to support the establishment and maintenance of science education programs in Idaho. Eligible projects must demonstrate a commitment to enhancing STEM awareness among elementary and secondary students, requiring applicants to contribute at least half of the funding through financial or in-kind support.

The Formative (Interim) Assessment Grant by the Indiana Department of Education supports schools in utilizing formative assessments to enhance curriculum and instruction. This funding is aimed at public school corporations, charter schools, and accredited non-public schools serving students from kindergarten to grade 10. By focusing on data-driven practices, this grant aims to improve educational outcomes and ensure targeted support for individual student needs.

The K12 Strong Workforce Program Grant, initiated by California's legislature in 2018, aims to enhance career technical education (CTE) for K-12 local education agencies (LEAs). It fosters collaborations between K-12 schools and community colleges to create effective CTE pathways, ensuring students gain essential skills for successful transitions into higher education and the workforce. The initiative allocates $150 million annually to support innovative CTE programs, driving regional workforce development and addressing labor market demands.

The Quality Schools Grant Program, funded by the Alaska Department of Education, aims to enhance student achievement by aligning educational practices with Alaska Standards. Schools may apply for $16 per adjusted Average Daily Membership to support various educational activities, including curriculum development and tutoring. The program prioritizes interventions that positively impact students struggling with core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics, ensuring that all funded efforts contribute to measurable academic improvements.

The Therapeutic Classroom Grant, funded by the Iowa Department of Education, supports public school districts in creating therapeutic classrooms for students aged 3 to 21. These classrooms cater to learners whose emotional, social, or behavioral challenges hinder their educational success. Competitive grants prioritize districts that have previously applied without success, those collaborating with mental health service providers, and those located in behavioral health service regions. Grants facilitate essential support for students to thrive in their educational environments.

The Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund supports North Carolina counties in addressing critical public school building needs through grants funded by the NC Education Lottery. With over $258 million available for FY2025-26, counties can apply for significant funding to construct new schools and renovate existing facilities. Eligible counties must have a market value of taxable real property under $40 billion and are required to provide local matching funds. This initiative aims to enhance educational infrastructure across the state.

The Balanced Calendar Grant, funded by OSPI's federal ESSER funds, supports public school districts, educational service districts, state-tribal education compact schools, and charter schools. It aims to enhance academic achievement by reducing summer learning loss through modified school calendars. Three grant opportunities are available: New Grant for first-time applicants up to $20,000, Continuation Grant for past recipients up to $75,000, and Implementation Grant for the 2023-24 school year up to $100,000.

The Reser Family Foundation's Midsize Grant Program supports organizations in Oregon with annual budgets over $1.2 million. Grants range from $12,500 to $50,000 and prioritize innovative projects in Education, Health, Arts, and Environment. Eligible applicants must be established 501(c)(3) organizations for over three years and demonstrate community impact. Applications require a letter of support and collaboration with funding partners. The foundation does not fund organizations involved in active litigation or one-time events.

The Greylock ABC Fund Grant supports educational initiatives for students of color and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds in grades pre-K-12. Established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, it aims to foster multicultural education and academic preparedness. Proposals from nonprofit organizations and public school districts in Northern Berkshire County and Pittsfield are encouraged, particularly those benefiting marginalized communities. Priority is given to projects that promote equity and have clear community impact.

The Student STEM Enrichment Program (SSEP) aims to enhance K-12 education in North Carolina by funding hands-on STEM activities for students. With grants up to $60,000 annually for three years, SSEP supports innovative programs that nurture students' interest in science and mathematics. It prioritizes partnerships among nonprofits and encourages projects that engage underrepresented communities. SSEP aims to develop students' skills and inspire future careers in STEM fields, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry.

The California National Archery in the Schools Program (CalNASP) Equipment Grant provides essential archery equipment to California schools, supporting students in grades 4-12. Managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, this program encourages physical education through certified instructors. Eligible applicants include public, private, and charter schools aiming to implement the California Scholastic Archery Program (CSAP). Equipment grants are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, fostering an engaging learning environment while promoting archery as a recognized educational activity.

The Charter School Facilities Credit Enhancement Grant Program, managed by the California State Treasurer's Office, aims to support charter schools in California by providing grants that fund debt service reserve accounts. This initiative is designed to lower borrowing costs for charter schools, thereby facilitating the acquisition, renovation, or construction of school facilities. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a strong financial position and utilize funds within six months of approval to ensure effective resource allocation.

The Charter School Facility Grant Program (SB740) aims to provide financial assistance for charter school facilities, specifically targeting schools that enroll a significant percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals. This program, now managed by the California School Finance Authority, offers annual grants to help offset facility costs. Funding availability is announced annually on the CSFA website, ensuring support for schools in need of financial aid for their operational expenses.

The PLTW Engineering program in Chevron Mississippi aims to enhance educational opportunities for K-12 students by providing grants to schools offering PLTW Engineering courses. Chevron has invested over $24 million since 2009 to support this initiative, which has benefited over 411,000 students and 9,500 teachers nationwide. Schools in specific districts can apply, and the program covers essential expenses related to course implementation, fostering innovation and hands-on learning in engineering.

The State Media Assistance Grant, offered by the National Education Association Staff Organization, aims to enhance public education by promoting the Association's role in improving educational quality. These grants are exclusively available to NEA State Affiliates and support initiatives that advance public education and bolster the Association's reputation through effective communication campaigns.

The NEA Community Advocacy & Partnership Engagement (CAPE) Grant aims to support local affiliates in mobilizing community organizations to enhance student achievement, particularly for students of color. Key priorities include fostering initiatives for racial justice in education, engaging NEA members trained in leadership, and creating union roles for community engagement. This grant encourages collaboration between educators and community leaders to build capacity and drive positive change.

The CRSJ Racial Justice in Education Grant, administered by the National Education Association, aims to enhance racial equity within education by funding initiatives that promote awareness, leadership development, and solidarity among diverse racial groups. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $75,000, supporting projects that address racism and foster equitable policies in educational settings, thereby accelerating efforts towards social justice.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Connecticut's New London and Windham Counties through education and community support. Since its inception, the Foundation has invested over $60 million in grants, with a commitment to empowering local non-profits that foster educational opportunities, human welfare, civic engagement, and arts and culture. With a strong emphasis on measurable impact, the Foundation aims to create sustainable, vibrant communities by supporting initiatives that promote long-term self-sufficiency and community enrichment.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in communities across the U.S., particularly through education. Since 1989, it has awarded over $60 million, prioritizing grants for tax-exempt organizations in areas where Nordson operates. The foundation emphasizes long-term community needs, supporting initiatives in education, human welfare, civic affairs, and the arts. Its commitment includes funding general operating support for nonprofits, ensuring they can measure program effectiveness and foster self-sufficiency.

The KLA-Tencor Foundation's Education Opportunity Fund aims to enhance educational access, promote emotional well-being, and improve educational systems, particularly for under-resourced K-12 students. Grants between $50,000 and $250,000 are available for innovative projects that eliminate barriers to education and foster sustainable partnerships. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a significant impact in communities served by KLA, focusing on systemic change rather than direct student assistance.

The SPFFA Educational Scholarship provides financial support of $5000 for university candidates aiming to teach French in primary and secondary schools. To be eligible, applicants must be American citizens or resident aliens, preferably enrolled in a School of Education and pursuing a Master in Teaching with a focus on French. Additionally, applicants need to maintain a GPA above 3.00, ensuring commitment to their educational goals.

The Fred C. & Katherine B. Andersen Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the St. Croix Valley of Minnesota and Wisconsin. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with priorities in healthcare, education, housing, human services, civic initiatives, and environmental education. While capital requests may be considered, the foundation primarily funds operational and programmatic needs. Organizations outside the geographic area may be considered if they align with the foundation's funding priorities.

The Idaho Commission for Libraries is offering mini-grants to enhance school library access for elementary and secondary students. These grants aim to support schools that lack resources for students to check out books, especially crucial as educators work to recover learning lost during the pandemic. Research links strong school library collections to improved academic achievement, making funding essential for fostering literacy and providing students with the reading materials they need.

The INL STEM Impact Grant, honoring former Governor C.L. “Butch” and First Lady Lori Otter, offers $15,000 to support innovative STEM projects in Idaho. This initiative encourages collaboration among educators, businesses, and community partners to enhance K-12 education. The grant aims to foster a sustainable STEM culture and empower future generations by integrating STEM concepts into schools, ultimately impacting students' educational experiences and career paths.

The K-12 Education Grants offered by Idaho National Laboratory aim to enhance STEM education in Idaho. These grants support innovative, student-centered projects to improve learning experiences in the classroom. With a maximum award of $2,000, the funding can be utilized for project materials and equipment, fostering a strong foundation for the future STEM workforce. INL's initiative encourages teachers and administrators to create impactful educational opportunities that inspire students and promote engagement in science and technology.

The INL Family and Community Engagement Grant aims to support nonprofit and publicly funded organizations in hosting community events that promote STEM education and career opportunities. Grants of up to $750 are available for initiatives that can focus on specific subjects like math or science, or celebrate STEM more broadly. This initiative is part of Idaho National Laboratory's commitment to inspire the future STEM workforce and engage families in educational practices.