What are Spotlight Funds?

Spotlight Funds are a grant program for K-12 educators. Each fund supports a specific subject area, or addresses a need facing K-12 educators and students. 

We currently have seven Spotlight Funds: Arts, Inclusive Classroom, Indigenous Language Fund, Natural Disaster Relief, Racial Equity in Schools, Social-Emotional Wellness, and STEM.

Educators who receive a Spotlight Fund Grant can use the funds to order the tools and materials they need to support their curriculum and meet their students’ needs. See below for more information on each fund, and how to apply.

Arts Fund
The Arts Fund supports all art forms, including visual and performing arts. Exposure to the arts is part of an enriching educational experience for children. Participation in the arts decreases school dropout rates among at-risk youth, and improves students’ success in other subject areas. When we provide children with the tools they need to engage in the arts, we encourage their creativity and open up a whole world of possibilities for their future. Learn more or give.

Inclusive Classroom Fund
The Inclusive Classroom Fund addresses inequity in the classroom on the basis of race, ethnicity, family background, sexual and gender identity, ability, or any personal or social circumstances. Educators are often in need of materials that serve and represent their diverse classroom populations. This Fund helps educators meet their students’ individual learning needs, and acknowledge their unique circumstances with the exact materials students need to thrive in the classroom. Learn more or give.

Natural Disaster Relief Fund
The Natural Disaster Relief Fund helps educators replace lost or damaged supplies, and meet students’ needs in the wake of a disaster. Schools and educators provide support, safety, and a sense of community for our nation’s students. A disaster, such as a hurricane or pandemic, can take that away in an instant, putting many students who may already be vulnerable at even greater risk of food insecurity, homelessness, and/or psychological trauma. Educators are often left scrambling to meet students’ educational needs, adapt to new education settings, and/or replace items that were damaged or destroyed. Learn more or give.

Racial Equity In Schools Fund
Students of color deserve a school environment where they can thrive. To create systemic change, educators need training and resources. As schools face massive budget cuts due to the impact of COVID-19, funding for these items is tighter than ever. Your gift will be directed towards proven strategies and resources that will have long-lasting benefits for students of color nationwide. Funding will focus on providing flexible funding grants to BIPOC educators. Learn more or give.

Social-Emotional Wellness Fund
We believe addressing trauma and fostering social skills is key to helping students succeed in the classroom. Social-emotional wellness curriculum features authentic school-family-community partnerships so students can experience trusting, collaborative relationships. Your gift helps students build the social skill foundation that will carry them through the rest of their lives. Learn more or give.

STEM Fund
The STEM Fund (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) helps educators access the tools and materials needed to incorporate a rich, experiential STEM-based curriculum in their classrooms. STEM-based curriculum is critical to prepare our young people for 21st century jobs. Many schools are not equipped to meet this need, particularly those in under-served communities. Learn more or give.

Retired:

COVID-19 Relief Fund
The Coronavirus pandemic is challenging all of us to rethink how we live and work. Students are home. Schools are closed. Teachers are working remotely. Many students’ families do not have access to the technology tools or basic materials needed for distance learning. Schools need support to keep learning safe. With your support, we can equip teachers and students with the tools they need to continue learning in a safe environment. Learn what we accomplished.