Grant Writing

Purpose:   The purpose of this assignment was reach out to a company for a grant to find supplemental funding for the classroom.  As schools and districts continue to practice innovative classrooms there never seems to be enough of funding for what teachers are requesting. This is an outlet that educators and schools can use to help assist in creating classrooms for optimal learning.

Challenge: The challenge in this assignment was finding a company that had a form that was pre-created for you to fill out for a grant.  I found numerous companies that made standing desks but it was difficult to find a company that offered a grant form to be completed. I did find a company called Stand Up Kids however they are not accepting any grant proposals until 2019 because they are currently conducting studies with large universities. Another challenge I found was writing a grant that would really convey the deep need for this product. Additionally, having the district agree that this product will prove to be beneficial with our students.

How it was used in the classroom: This would be used in the classroom for students who have difficulty paying attention. Studies have shown that standing desks help productivity. Additionally it is healthier for students to stand versus being sedentary all day in their desks. In particular in our district because our elementary students do not have gym more than once a week and only have ten minutes of recess after lunch (weather permitting). This is detrimental for a child’s growth and development, physically and cognitively.  I believe that utilizing these desks in our classrooms would truly help all students.

Reflection and growth: I liked that this assignment was something new that I have not done before because it opened my eyes to new ideas and opportunities I could capitalize on in my classroom.  I certainly believe this is something that I will keep in mind as I continue to expand and build a more innovative classroom.  I am disappointed that the company I found will not be accepting grant applications until 2019, but I have anticipatory plans to proceed with submitting the proposal in 2019 when the company starts accepting grant proposals.  In the meantime, I will search around and see if there are other grants that will provide benefits for my students and their learning environment.