Teacher Mini-Grant FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I submit a mini-grant application?
A: Applications must be submitted at the following link: http://friendsofmascoma.org/mini-grants/. Paper applications are not accepted.
Q: Why is there no “save” button on the application?
A: In order to keep overhead costs low, Friends of Mascoma chose to use a free platform (JotForm) for the application. There are two options that would allow applicants to continue working on applications at a later time, however we determined the two options pose potential security risks as they are dependent on autofill and personal information.
Q: How do I know if my mini-grant was submitted successfully?
A: Upon submission you will receive a confirmation email that includes all the information entered in the application. If you did not receive an email confirmation then your application has not been submitted.
Q: If I have questions or issues with the mini-grant application who do I contact?
A: Questions or issues with the mini-grant application need to be directed to grants@friendsofmascoma.org.
Q: Who is allowed to submit a mini-grant application?
A: Any instructional or professional staff (i.e., teachers, counselors, librarians, paraprofessionals, or nurses) is eligible to apply for a mini-grant. FOM’s goals is to provide mini-grants for as many schools and departments as possible, we encourage everyone to apply.
Q: When should I expect to hear back on my mini-grant application?
A: You will receive a response to your mini-grant application approximately 4-6 weeks after the deadline.
Q: What is the selection criteria for winning a mini-grant?
A: Grants are awarded based on the quality of the idea and the projected impact of the project presented in the application. Projects that provide a positive impact for a large number of students have a higher likelihood of being selected.
Q: How many mini-grants are awarded each year?
A: The number of grants awarded depends on funds raised each year.
Q: Is there a limit to how much I can request?
A: There is no limit to the amount applicants may request, however for requests over $1,000 please email grants@friendsofmascoma.org prior to submitting.
Q: Do I need to get permission from the school district in order to apply?
A: All school district policies and processes regarding grant application must be followed. Pre-approval by your principal is required for all proposed projects. If your request is over $1,000 it will be reviewed by the district’s School Board for final approval and the Business Administrator will confirm that the budget does not already cover the project. Projects over $1,000 must be in compliance with KCD Public Gifts or Donations to Schools.
Q: How soon do I need to finish my mini-grant project?
A: All projects must be completed within six months of fund disbursement.
Q: Once my mini-grant project is finished do I have any obligations to Friends of Mascoma?
A: Within a month of completion of the mini-grant project, a summary of the project’s outcome is required. This summary needs to be submitted electronically to FOM for promotional use on our website, social media, etc. FOM encourages video, photos, and multimedia presentations if available. Photo release must be documented along with the project summary. If you would like an example project summary please request a copy by emailing grants@friendsofmascoma.org.
Q: What are the submission deadlines?
A: Starting in the 2018-2019 there will be four deadlines each year:
- October 1st
- January 1st
- April 1st
- July 1st
Q: Why did Friends of Mascoma choose to move from rolling submissions to three deadlines per year?
A: Friends of Mascoma is entirely run by volunteers and after piloting rolling submissions for a year we determined it will be a more efficient use of volunteer time to review submissions three times per year.
Q: How many mini-grants may I apply for in one year?
A: There is no limit to the number of mini-grants you may apply for in a year, however final summaries must be submitted for your most recent mini-grant before future submissions will be considered.