Teacher Quest Tampa Bay
Pilot Program

TEACHER MINI-GRANT GUIDELINES

Mini-Grant Application

Statement of Intent

The Teacher Quest Tampa Bay Pilot Program’s teacher mini-grant program strives to fund classroom projects that teach Florida students about the importance of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), as well as introduce them to STEM-related careers, and career pathways. The grants are intended to supplement classroom activities developed in teacher Action Plans. Teachers may request mini-grants up to $500. A total of three grants will be awarded.

Timeline

• Applications are due to TRDA by July 20, 2010
• Grants will be awarded at the Teacher Quest Recognition Luncheon on July 29, 2010
• Final grant report is due to TRDA December 31, 2010.

Eligible Applicants

Certified Florida teachers participating in the Teacher Quest Tampa Bay Pilot Program

Grant Requirements

• Grant funding must directly support inquiry-based lessons developed in the teacher’s Action Plan
• Students must be directly involved in the project
• A detailed budget must be included in the application
• A final report must be submitted by the deadline

Funding Guidelines

• Transportation will not be permitted
• Grant money can not be used for consumables (food, etc.) unless these items are an integral part of the lesson plan and the end product
• Grant checks not cashed within 60 days after receipt will become null and void

Judging Criteria Points

Mini-grant applications will be evaluated by TRDA on the following criteria:

• Ability to increase student understanding of STEM – 25 pts.
• Ability to increase student awareness of STEM-related careers – 20 pts.
• Inquiry-based approach to integrating STEM concepts in the classroom – 40 pts.
• Creativity and innovation – 10 pts.
• Timeline – 5 pts.

Final Report Requirements

• Should be one - two pages long and document how the funds were expended
• Include the number of students reached with the lesson or unit of study and student impact
• Include original receipts and documentation of expenses
• Submit a final report to dmatthews@trda.org by December 31, 2010

Application Submission

The deadline for submitting grant proposals to TRDA is July 20, 2010.

Questions

Contact Diane Matthews
Phone: 866-263-9564. Ext. 106
Email: dmatthews@trda.org