Scholar Grants

The Alabama Power Foundation's Scholar Grant program is designed to support the educational development of students in grades 2 through 8 by empowering educators with funding for professional development, instructional materials, and technology that enhance student achievement in mathematics and English language arts (ELA). This grant reflects the Foundation’s broader commitment to advancing educational outcomes across Alabama, especially within communities served by Alabama Power and those with high needs, such as Title I schools. The Scholar Grant enables educators to form grade-level or subject-area teams and submit collaborative applications. These teams must outline how they will use funding—up to $5,000 per grant—to improve proficiency in math and/or ELA. The focus is not only on acquiring instructional tools and classroom technology but also on professional development (PD), which is a mandatory component of every funded proposal. Teachers are expected to select PD opportunities tailored to improving their instructional skills in math or ELA, even if the cost of the PD is free. The grant supports a structured approach to teacher collaboration, encouraging professional growth through peer support and shared strategies aimed at raising student performance. Eligible applicants include public school educators teaching grades 2 through 8, as well as nonprofit organizations that partner with schools and offer services aligned with the grant objectives. However, all applications must be submitted in the name of the school, and any awarded funds will be paid directly to that school. The Scholar Grant explicitly excludes applications from private schools and other non-school organizations, and only supports programs with a clear focus on academic improvement in math or ELA. The application process is organized into two distinct funding cycles. The first cycle opens on February 23, 2026, and closes on March 13, 2026. The second cycle opens on August 3, 2026, and concludes on September 4, 2026. There are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers. The submission must describe how the selected PD, instructional materials, and technology will contribute to increased student achievement, as well as define the methods for measuring success. Applications will be prioritized based on school demographics, with Title I schools or those where at least 50% of students receive free or reduced meals receiving preference. Additionally, schools located within Alabama Power's service territory are favored. The evaluation criteria focus on team collaboration, relevance and impact of professional development, the strategic use of resources, and the capacity to measure student outcomes. Awarded funds will be disbursed to the recipient schools following the closure of each cycle. The program is structured to recur annually, offering consistent opportunities for schools to build capacity and invest in student academic growth over time. Contact details are not provided on the source page, and applicants are directed to use the Alabama Power Foundation’s online grant portal to apply.