Fund for Teachers Wants Teachers Who Seek Solutions to Genuine Challenges
Share
Tweet
In early November, the Fund for Teachers organization announced a professional development opportunity for educators. The online application process is now open. It closes on January 21, 2021, with award notifications made on March 30, 2021.
A spokesperson for the Fund said: “We believe that now more than ever teachers need opportunities to look beyond limitations to enrich their practice and to engage students in new ways. Therefore, we are very excited to announce that Fund for Teachers will extend 2021 grants to a new cohort of teachers. Your path of learning, be it experiential or online, should be your choice.”
For the upcoming summer, Fund for Teachers grants will cover learning experiences within the continental United States and Hawaii. Grant amounts of up to $5,000 are available for individuals and up to $10,000 for a team of two or more. These teams do not have to be in the same school, district, or even the same state. Most significantly, Fund for Teachers encourages applicants to focus on topics and issues most directly facing our nation at this time. These issues include, but are not limited to, equity, diversity, inclusion, climate change, and civic engagement.
Teachers on the front lines of education see firsthand the challenges facing their students, schools, and communities. Consequently, Fund for Teachers welcomes fellowship proposals that aim to resolve any of these issues, as well. An interested applicant is encouraged to visit the organization’s Application Learning Center for tips on completing the application process.
The organization was founded on the belief that teachers are problem solvers and community leaders who inspire students towards action. Their mission focuses on “strengthening instruction by investing in outstanding teachers’ self-determined professional growth and development in order to support student success, enrich their own practice, and strengthen their schools and communities.”
Backing those beliefs, Fund for Teachers supports educators’ efforts to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence that impact student achievement. By trusting teachers to design unique fellowships, Fund for Teachers grants validate teachers’ professionalism and leadership, as well.
As the national spotlight illuminates the passion, dedication, and determination of our nation’s teachers to reach and teach children, Fund for Teachers provides advocacy for these “first responders” and looks forward to “empowering preK-12 educators from public, private, and charter schools with opportunities to recharge for an even greater impact as they create opportunities for students to be change-makers in their communities.”
In order to apply, an individual must be a full-time preK-12th grade teacher who spends at least 50% of his/her time directly providing instruction to students and should have at least three years’ experience in this role by the end of the school year. Furthermore, the applicant must intend to return to a classroom or teaching environment the year following their fellowship and demonstrate the ability to incorporate what they learn into their teaching.
Since 2001, Fund for Teachers has invested $33.5 million in nearly 9,000 teachers, transforming grants into growth for teachers and their students.
