USD 250 Foundation Teacher Grant application process opens Nov. 7

The USD 250 Foundation will open applications for its annual Teacher Grant Program on Friday, Nov. 7. Educators can apply online at usd250foundation.org/teachergrants.

The Foundation is committed to excellence in educational opportunities for all students through the enhancement of school facilities, services, and programs. 

Teacher grants play a vital role in that mission by providing funds for projects that help students learn, grow, and succeed, noted Kelynn Heardt, Foundation board member who heads up the grant committee.

Each year, the Foundation allocates approximately $20,000 to fund teacher grants that support creative and impactful projects within the district. In 2025, the Foundation awarded $28,000 in grants to 30 teachers across all Pittsburg Community Schools — projects that have brought lessons to life both inside and outside the classroom.

At Pittsburg Community Middle School, strength and conditioning teacher Leroy O’Bray used a grant to improve the student experience in the weight room, making it possible for students to work different muscle groups more effectively and efficiently.

At George Nettels Elementary, teacher Natalie Vanderbeck said grants have helped her and her collaborating teachers connect with students and families in new ways.

“Our goal is to involve families more, and to break down barriers to make reading and math more fun, more engaging,” Vanderbeck said.

At Pittsburg High School, science teacher Steven Seeley used his grant to enhance hands-on learning in a natural outdoor setting.

“We have this natural area — this wetland — that was built several years ago, as well as the wooded and grassy areas surrounding it, that we can incorporate into our science curriculum,” Seeley said, “and the grants have helped us purchase equipment so that students can better explore it.”

Their stories reflect the spirit of the Teacher Grant Program: empowering educators to turn creative ideas into meaningful learning experiences that make a lasting impact on students.

Foundation President Jon Bartlow said the program continues to thrive thanks to strong community support.

“The teacher grant program is one of the most visible ways we see our community’s generosity in action,” Bartlow said. “Every dollar donated makes a direct impact in classrooms across our district — helping teachers bring new ideas to life and inspiring students every day. We’re incredibly grateful to the donors and businesses who make this possible.”

And, he noted, with Match Week coming up next week through the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas, “it’s the perfect time for anyone who values education to give and see their gift go even further in support of Pittsburg schools.”

In the upcoming Teacher Grant cycle, grants may be awarded to schools, grade levels, departments, classrooms, or groups of educators. Applications must align with the district’s curricular goals, and proposals must be approved by a teacher’s building administrator.

Educators may apply for grants up to $1,500 by 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025.

Each of the district’s four elementary schools automatically will receive $500 for field trips.

The USD 250 Foundation Grant Committee will review all applications and determine which requests will be fully or partially funded. Awards will be announced prior to Winter Break, with funds distributed in January. 

For more information, visit usd250foundation.org