Educational Enhancement Mini Grant Program

The Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation provides funding through its Educational Enhancement Grant program to support innovative educational projects within the Manchester and Amherst public school systems in New Hampshire. The foundation focuses on enhancing classroom experiences, promoting co-curricular opportunities, and addressing student health and wellness in school settings. The fund specifically aims to foster creativity among teachers and staff by enabling them to implement projects that go beyond the standard curriculum. Grants of up to $750 are available to teachers and staff members working in the Manchester and Amherst public schools, including those involved in the 21st Century After School Program. The program encourages projects that build upon or expand existing curricula, introduce new enrichment activities, or address health and wellness issues within the school environment. However, funding cannot be used for standard curricular materials such as textbooks or for field trip transportation costs. Each teacher or staff member is eligible to receive one grant per school year. The program limits the number of grants per school: a maximum of three grants may be awarded to any Manchester school during the school year, while the Amherst School District may request up to three grants annually. Eligible projects must benefit an entire class or utilize a fair selection process for student participation and must align with approved school activities and policies regarding insurance, transportation, and other operational aspects. Applications for the Educational Enhancement Grant must include a short narrative (one to three pages) and a completed application cover sheet. The narrative should outline the proposed project and how it meets the grant’s objectives. All applications must be signed by the applicant’s school principal to ensure alignment with school goals. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the school year, and applicants can expect a decision within three weeks of submission. Recipients of the grant are required to submit a one-page final report by July 15 following receipt of the award. Failure to submit the report in a timely manner will disqualify the applicant from receiving future grants. The foundation provides a template for the final report to streamline this process. For additional information or to submit applications, applicants can contact Diane at the Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation. The foundation is located at 40 Stark Street, Manchester, NH 03101, and can be reached via phone at 603-493-7257 or email at Diane@beanfoundation.org.