A funded proposal
is a good idea packaged in a persuasive way. The key to a strong proposal is
providing the likelihood that it will achieve its goals. So, provide support
for your ideas, and keep your proposal clear, factual and professional.
1. Getting Started: Read the guidelines carefully. Spend some time thinking
about what you want to say. Then, begin each section with a strong, clear
sentence.
2. Summary
Description: Clearly and concisely summarize what you want to do. List the
needs to be met and/or the problems to be solved while focusing on the
benefits students will experience from the project. Use simple sentences
without jargon, and explain any concepts that may be unknown to those who
are not educators. Outline the who, what, where, why, when and how of the
classroom project. Again, be sure to identify how the student will benefit
from and be active in the project. Plan for student, parent and/or
community feedback at the completion of the project.
3. Project
Goals/Objectives: Objectives are statements that identify the specific,
concrete and measurable ways in which the goals or purpose of your project
will be achieved. They should tell what you want to do, when you want to do
it and the extent of your plan.
4. Budget: List
all items and the cost of each, showing clearly those to be met by the
grant and those to be provided by other sources. Include items or hours
donated in-kind. Make your request for a variety of items, not just one
large item, books or equipment.
