Melrose Education Foundation Accepting Grant Applications

The Melrose Education Foundation is currently accepting applications for its first round of grant funding, according to a press statement.

The Innovation Grants allow educators the opportunity for professional development, project-based learning initiatives, guest speakers and other classroom activities that promote innovative practices to improve student learning, according to the statement. 

"Educators are excited about the availability of these grants," said Lisa Lewis, president of the Melrose Education Foundation. "We've heard a wide range of ideas that promote creativity while advancing the district's curriculum, from creating a garden to teach ecology and botany to funding project-based learning initiatives that empower students to think critically about solving today's social and environmental problems. We look forward to receiving many applications from educators at all Melrose Public Schools — from the (Early Childhood Center) through the (Melrose) High School."

In 2012, $10,000 was awarded to grant recipients. This year, the City of Melrose is partnering with the foundation and will award $10,000 to grant recipients, as well as additional funds privately raised by the foundation, according to the statement. The foundation recently raised thousands of dollars for the cause through their Join the Flock fundraiser, whereby people made a donation by purchasing a plastic lawn flamingo, according to the foundation's Facebook page.

"Melrose Public Schools educators have great ideas, and we are thrilled to be able to help them put those ideas into practice," said Kim LaFontana, chairman of the Melrose Education Foundation Grants Committee, in the statement.

The deadline for grant applications, which can be found on the Melrose Education Foundation website, to be submitted is Friday, Nov. 29. Grant recipients will be notified by Friday, Dec. 20.

The Grants Committee, made up of Melrose Public Schools administrators and educators, parents and a representative from Mayor Rob Dolan's office, will review applications, according to the statement. The foundation asks that all potential applicants review the application guidelines on the website thoroughly before submitting them.

"The Innovation Grants initiative, which began last fiscal year, was inspired by state and federal Race to the Top grants to spur innovation in the classroom. It was a tremendous success," said Dolan in the statement. "The launch of the Melrose Education Foundation is the natural progression of this effort that we hope for, and is an example of city and school leaders, educators, and citizens partnering to support student achievement in new and exciting ways."

For more information, visit the Melrose Education Foundation website.