Education, Training and Maintenance Program

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) of the District of Columbia is offering a grant titled "RiverSmart Schools: Education, Training, and Maintenance" under the solicitation number RFA-FY25-WPD-879. The RiverSmart Schools (RSS) program, initiated in 2009, supports public and public charter schools in transforming schoolyards into green infrastructure (GI) spaces for environmental education and stormwater runoff management. These outdoor classrooms promote student learning, environmental stewardship, and water quality improvement across the District. This funding opportunity is part of the District’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability, supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Chesapeake Bay Implementation Grant (ALN 66.964). DOEE seeks an eligible applicant to carry out three core activities under this grant: (1) re-engagement of six past RSS project sites by reviving interest and usage of existing green spaces; (2) development and delivery of a training program for staff at three new RSS project sites; and (3) provision of resources to one or more of the 66 total RSS schools for continued maintenance and educational use of their outdoor classrooms. The total available funding is $75,000, distributed over two fiscal years—$15,000 allocated for FY25 and $60,000 for FY26. The grant period is anticipated to begin on or around October 1, 2025, and will conclude on September 30, 2026. Permissible expenses include costs associated with training, light maintenance, equipment and supplies (e.g., tools, plants, seating), compensation for teacher participation outside regular school hours, and background checks for personnel interacting with students. Grant funds will primarily be disbursed on a reimbursement basis, although advance payments may be approved under special circumstances. Eligibility for this grant includes nonprofit organizations (including 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4)), faith-based organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and private enterprises. Applications must be submitted through DOEE’s Grants Management System (GMS) and must be completed by 11:59 PM on August 11, 2025. New applicants must register for the GMS in advance, and DOEE advises early registration due to the 2-business day turnaround required for system access. Applications must include a project summary, narrative addressing goals, objectives, audience, activities, and outcomes, along with a numeric budget, budget narrative, and required attachments. These include IRS documentation, proof of nonprofit status (if applicable), Certificate of Good Standing, Clean Hands Certificate, financial statements, and proof of registration with the System for Award Management (SAM). A clear work plan and evidence of indirect cost rate, if claimed, are also required. Letters of support are necessary for partnerships with schools, agencies, or property owners. Applications will be evaluated based on ten weighted criteria including qualifications, feasibility, training plans, evaluation methods, and budgeting. Awards are expected to be announced within six to twelve weeks after the deadline. Reporting requirements include quarterly and final performance reports, supported by data, photos, lesson plans, and documented background checks for involved staff. Grant monitoring and audits may be conducted at DOEE’s discretion.

DOEE advises early registration in the GMS and allows budgeting for teacher stipends at $60/hour for out-of-duty contributions.