Depoali Memorial Fund Grants

The Depoali Memorial Fund Grants, administered by the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada, are dedicated to honoring the legacy of Kendyl Ruth Williams Depoali, a distinguished educator who served the Washoe County School District for over three decades. Kendyl Depoali was known for her exceptional dedication to teaching a wide range of subjects and for serving in leadership roles, including as principal at Sparks High School. Her vision for public education was rooted in the belief that it should be an equalizer and a gateway to opportunity for all students. The fund is designed to directly enhance the classroom experience and student outcomes within Washoe County public schools. Eligible applicants include principals, teachers, administrators, and student organizations with faculty support from any Washoe County elementary, middle, or high school. The grants aim to support innovative and creative initiatives that provide a clear and measurable benefit to students. This includes funding for professional development, classroom tools, curricular programs, or other educational resources. Applicants may request up to $4,000 in funding. While the total number of awards is not fixed, one or more grants may be awarded each year. The fund specifically encourages proposals that demonstrate originality and a strong alignment with student needs. Funds must be expended within 90 days of the award date to ensure timely implementation and impact. Applications are released on September 1 and are due by October 31 at 5:00 PM. Submission must be made via email to designated contacts at the Washoe County School District. Awards are announced by November 30, with funds disbursed in early December. All applications must route through the District’s Grants Department for submission to the Community Foundation, in line with internal policy. Prospective applicants should prepare a detailed proposal, including project purpose, goals, expected outcomes, a budget, and a timeline for fund use. Evaluation is likely based on project creativity, clarity of impact, and alignment with the fund’s mission to improve student experiences within the classroom. Additional inquiries may be directed to the Community Foundation’s philanthropic advisor, who is available to assist applicants with questions throughout the process.

Emphasize innovation and student benefit; clearly align with classroom improvement; submit through WCSD Grants Department per policy.