Helping teachers as they strive to bring creativity and innovation to the classroom is the core of WFEE's mission. For that reason, WFEE is making it easier for teachers to take advantage of the Foundation's Professional Development grant program.

There are now be two deadlines for Professional Development grants. In the 2011-2012 school year, those deadlines are: November 18, 2011 and March 2, 2012.

Applications that meet the November deadline will be reviewed and awarded in December. Teachers hoping to participate in professional development opportunities in the late winter of 2011 or spring of 2012 should apply by November 18. Applications for the November deadline should be completed on line and must meet WFEE guidelines.

PLEASE NOTE: BOTH THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION GRANT APPLICATIONS HAVE BEEN UPDATED THIS YEAR.

GRANTS REQUESTING THE PURCHASE OF TECHNOLOGY MUST NOW INCLUDE AN ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW SHEET SIGNED BY THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY.

WFEE STRONGLY SUGGESTS YOU MEET WITH THE DIRECTOR WELL BEFORE THE GRANT DEADLINE TO REVIEW THE SPECIFICS OF YOUR GRANT.

Education grants will be accepted for the March deadline only.

If you would like advice on a grant proposal you can submit a First Look request by January 20,2012 for feedback on a grant idea.

Process Basics for spring grant proposals:

• Grants Committee meets weekly in March to review applications;
• WFEE Board reviews Committee recommendations in April;
• Grants presented to the School Committee in  late April or early May;
• Applicants are then notified about the status of their grant proposal.

The WFEE Grants Review Committee consists of WFEE trustees and educators from the community who are not employed by the Town of Winchester.

The Review Committee considers each application according to the criteria stated in the WFEE Grants' guidelines. In the event that the Committee needs further clarification of any aspect of the proposal, the applicant may be asked to meet with Committee members to offer a more detailed explanation.

Any grant request over the amount of $7,500 automatically requires a meeting with the Review Committee.