Mini-Grants
What is a Mini-Grant?
Mini-Grants are modest cash awards that help educators make a positive difference in the learning experience of their students. More importantly, Mini-Grants support, encourage, and facilitate great teaching ideas. Since 2002, the Woodland Hills Foundation has funded 200 Mini-Grants totaling over $115,000.
The focus of the Mini-Grants is to encourage innovative teaching ideas. As such, the focus of these grants should not be to purchase equipment (e.g. iPads), but rather the idea aimed at improving the learning environment for the student. The Foundation understands that grant requests may include equipment or software, but these requests will only be considered within the context of the original, innovative teaching idea.
Who can apply for a Mini-Grant?
Any member of Woodland Hills School District’s instructional or professional staff, e.g. teachers, counselors, librarians, nurses, is eligible to apply for a Mini-Grant.
How to Apply for a Mini-Grant
The application process is short and straightforward. Complete the application on our Teacher Resources Page and submit via email.
For any questions or concerns please contact: Kathleen
Clear articulation of a good original teaching idea, along with its expected impact, are the basis of a successful application. Pre-approval by applicant’s principal is required for all proposed projects.
2023 Mini-Grant Application
Mini Grant applications are NOW OPEN The DEADLINE TO APPLY is MONDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are grants selected and approved for funding?
The Woodland Hills Foundation puts together a Selection Committee comprised of community representatives and WHF board members. Awards are based on those grants judged as having the best overall quality, innovation of the idea, and the projected impact of the grant as presented in the proposal. The number of grants made is also influenced by the funds the WHF raises for the Mini-Grant Program. Decisions are typically announced in early December but you should check the Teacher Resource Page for more info.
What happens after a Mini-Grant is awarded?
The awardee signs a Mini-Grant Agreement form, and then WHF issues a grant check directly to him or her. Awardees must complete their projects by the end of the current school year and then submit an Expense Report (including receipts for all expenditures) and a simple Project Report (typically with a few photos and/or samples of student work). Any undocumented funds or any unspent balance of the grant must be returned to the WHF to be used towards future Mini-Grants.
Who can answer questions about Mini-Grants?
Kathleen may be contacted at kathleen.whfoundation@gmail.com or Mary may be contacted at mary.whfoundation@gmail.com; and both would be happy to answer any questions about Mini-Grants and the application process.