There are many reasons why a school teacher may find it necessary in the course of his/her career to write a grant: the need for new technology hardware, software, networking, staff development programs, enrichment of school programs, replacing worn out or out-dated school equipment, supplies for art or drama classes, or funding for mounting special events (sports days, open house, school plays, etc.). All these things take money, which is usually in short supply. There is an art to grant writing, and there are tricks to it, just like everything else. Teachers need to know where to apply, how to frame a proposal, how much different granting agencies and foundations usually grant, and their deadlines for each yearÆs donations.
There are many sources of information for all these different facets of grant writing, and a library is a good place to start for the uninitiated (Prebyl). A grant is simply a donation of money, and while some grants may provide just a few hundred dollars, others may provide many thousands. All grantors have in common that they have very individual and specific rules and regulations which must be followed in obtaining the grants, and often in using the money they supply. Grantors may be individuals or organizations, and may fund specific programs or projects. Some grantors want to fund only new and innovative programs and projects, while others like to fund ongoing, well-established programs.
There are different types of grants available (Prebyl). They come in the form of awards, general support grants, endowments, fellowships, matching funds, and continuing support. Sometimes they are given for specific projects, sometimes for research, for scholarships, or for seed money for large projects. Sometimes the grantors put a time limit during which the funds must be used, while others do not have time constraints. Some grantors have geographic preferences for where their money goes, which can be...