Helping Hands Grant

PTEF was so excited to award over $20,000  in Helping Hand grants to amazing educators of Perry Township Schools.  We anticipate a short session prior to our next school year awards to help better understand the needs of educators and share best practices in writing for a PTEF grant.  We are already looking forward to the 2025-2026 school year.  

READ BEFORE APPLYING:

Helping Hand Grant Program: Guidelines

Purpose of the Grant

To support innovative, creative, and student-centered instructional projects that enhance learning and align with PTEF’s mission to support educational excellence in Perry Township Schools.

Funding Parameters

Grant Amount:  Maximum award per project: $500 |  Typical range: $250–$500

Larger awards may be considered for collaborative projects involving multiple classrooms or interdisciplinary approaches.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicant must be a certified staff member (teacher, counselor, or specialist) in Perry Township Schools.

Project must be implemented within the current academic year or summer following.

Funds must directly benefit students in the classroom, school setting or immediate community.

Previous Helping Hand grantees are eligible to reapply, provided they submitted receipts, final report or impact summary for their last funded project.

Project Requirements and Funding Priorities

• Innovative - Introduce new teaching strategies, tools, or concepts not commonly used in the applicant’s current classroom.

• Student-Centered - Engage students actively and foster creativity, curiosity, or critical thinking.

• Sustainable - Can be reused or adapted beyond the grant period, though not required.

• Equity-Focused - Address barriers to learning or include diverse perspectives or populations.

• Scalable or Shareable - Can be shared with colleagues or adapted for broader use in the district.

 Allowable Expenses

• Instructional materials not covered by the school’s regular budget

• Books, manipulatives, or classroom resources specific to the proposed project

• Technology tools if directly tied to a learning innovation (e.g., a digital storytelling app license)

• Materials for project-based learning or STEAM activities

• Guest speakers or workshop leaders (if approved and aligned to district policy)

Non-Allowable Expenses

• Food or refreshments (see PTEF food policy)

• Gift cards, incentives, or prizes

• Standard classroom supplies (unless directly tied to the innovation - use Teachers Treasures memberships)

• Teacher stipends or salaries

• Capital improvements or furniture

• Technology not essential to the project innovation (e.g., headphones, basic tablets)

High Points for Reviewing Committee

• Innovation & Creativity - Project introduces unique or bold new methods.

• Student Impact - Strong evidence of deep, active learning for many students.

• Alignment with Goals - Strong alignment with PTEF mission and district objectives.

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