DPS Foundation Teacher Grants
The Dayton Public Schools Foundation
Teacher Grants
Welcome to the Dayton Public Schools Foundation Teacher Grants Program page.
Each year, we open the Grants application process and invite our teachers to develop and submit a project. Since 2015 we have awarded more than $100,000 in grants that have made a positive impact within many academic disciplines, most grade levels, and other categories (ELL, Special Education). When writing and submitting a grant we encourage authors to use the application forms available on the DPS website and this website.
We look for grants that:
- Complement and support the goals of the Dayton Public Schools
- Demonstrate innovative thinking and promote cooperative learning
- Yield materials and durable goods that can benefit future student
- Be self-sustaining once the initial funding is in place
Applications are due 5/19/2023.
Access the application HERE
Grant Guidelines
For a well-constructed application, we suggest starting early. Use the template to craft your response before uploading to the form above. Access the template HERE.
Grant Tips Sheet

Teacher Grant Guidelines
Any full time, certified classroom Dayton Public School teacher may apply for the grant.
Applications may be submitted by individuals, grade level teams, or school committees.
Awards may be made up to $500 for each project approved. Monies must only purchase items not normally paid for by DPS. Projects must be completed during the 2023 school year. Winners/grantees will receive DPS purchase orders for supplies listed in the proposal from their school’s treasurer.
Projects should support student achievement and make relevant connections to the curriculum adopted by the Dayton Public Schools.
Your principal should made aware of your grant application. You will be asked for the name and email address of your principal and attest to their knowledge of the proposal.
The evaluation committee will conduct blind reviews of all grant proposals. The number of grants to be approved each round is dependent upon the funds available as well as the quality of proposals.
The evaluation criteria are based upon the goal of the proposal, the project’s relevance to the goal, and the value of student progress achieved by the project. Extra points may be earned (see accompanying TIPS).
At the end of the grant period, grant recipients will be required to submit a project evaluation, photos of student participation, and a few student letters of gratitude. These will be used on our website and in other media to attract more donors.
Grant money cannot be used for monetary rewards for students, salaries, professional development, food, or workshop fees. Equipment purchased becomes the property of DPS.
Winners will be notified on or before January 9, 2023. Winners will be publicized via press release, social media, DBOE meeting and other media outlets.
Proposal Writing Tips
- Read the application guidelines and instructions carefully.
- Brainstorm with colleagues about proposal ideas.
- Talk to other people who have successfully written grant proposals.
- Commit your ideas to paper.
- Clearly describe your project objectives. Tell who is going to do what, when, and how much it is going to cost. Proposals must be clear, concise, readable, and easily understood.
- Write your proposal so as to convince the committee that your proposal should be funded. Typically, the committee does not grant funds for video cameras, digital cameras, computer software, or technology equipment. However, exceptions have been made for extremely well-written, unique, and creative proposals.
- Proofread your proposal and have someone else proofread it.
- Include a budget with approximate prices that will show how you will carry out your objectives.
- Keep a copy of your application for future reference.
- Abide by all deadlines. Applications are due December 2nd at 11:59pm via our online form
- A rubric is used by the committee as a guide to help in awarding grants. The highest score on the rubric is given to grants that:
- Affect the greatest number of students/staff or partners from the community;
- Have the ability to be shared and repeated in other grade levels/buildings;
- Use recyclable/reusable materials that are long lasting;
- Utilize components of state standards or DPS courses of study; and
- Demonstrate an innovative instructional curricular method, especially literacy- based instruction, immigrant education, instrumental music integration, and STEM.
Previous Recipients of DPSF Teacher Grants
We Are Built on Community Support
Your investment in this initiative—both personal and financial—is vital. Together, we can encourage the City of Dayton to transform today’s students into tomorrow’s leaders.
The DPS Foundation is a fund of The Dayton Foundation. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. When you click the “Donate Now” button you will be redirected to The Dayton Foundation website to make a secure on-line pledge that is pre-addressed to DPSF.

