Grant Guidelines

Monthly grant awards are available to any staff member of Winona Area Public Schools, not just teachers. Appropriate requests for funding include, but are not limited to, field trips, guest presenters, enhancement opportunities, and student leadership programs within WAPS. Applications must be received by the 10th of each month to be considered at that month’s Foundation Board Meeting, which takes place the 3rd Wednesday of each month. The applicant’s supervisor must approve the grant application before submission.

When evaluating grant requests, the Foundation’s Board of Directors will:

  • Ensure the Foundation’s mission is supported: “To enrich and expand educational opportunities in WAPS by supporting important programs and projects that would otherwise not be available via normal District resources.”
  • Ensure allocations only benefit WAPS students and their education.
  • Require the project be completed in a timely fashion.
  • Fund up to $600 or 45% of the total cost of the project, whichever is greater.
    $600 for smaller projects under $1,500
    45% of the total cost of larger projects above $1,500
    The amount awarded could increase if a need is demonstrated.
  • Consider the cost per participant (entrance fees for WAPS staff and chaperones can be included) using the following travel guidelines:
    If entire class is traveling in-state (ex: field trip), 45% of the total cost is funded.
    If a smaller group is traveling: in-state $60 per participant, out-of-state $90 per participant, international $110 per participant.
    The amount awarded could increase if a need is demonstrated.
  • Encourage the solicitation of other sources to pay for costs not covered by the Foundation (ex: PTO or other granting organizations).
  • Require all items purchased with grant money stay in the area or department of the WAPS building in which it was granted.
  • Share the grant application with the office of Learning & Teaching or Special Education.
  • Not fund requests for:
    Food
    Salaries
    Medical equipment or procedures
    Furniture
    Sensory assistance items
    Clothing or uniforms
    Celebration field trips
  • Dare to Dream grant requests follow other guidelines.