School Program Grants

The Watertown Community Foundation offers School Program Grants to support educational enrichment initiatives conducted in partnership with Watertown Public Schools. The foundation’s mission is to enhance the educational experience of Watertown’s youth by funding a wide range of school-based programs. This grant is specifically aimed at supporting projects that demonstrate collaboration, innovation, and a broader impact beyond a single classroom. Applicants are encouraged to propose initiatives that span grade levels, involve after-school engagement, or have a school- or district-wide scope. Eligible projects may include the purchase of supplemental books and materials, musical instruments, or lab equipment; hosting special events and guest speakers such as those addressing anti-discrimination or substance abuse prevention; and launching student-centered programs like college readiness initiatives or after-school clubs. Past grants have also supported experimental educational models such as professional development for teachers in project-based learning and literacy-enhancing training programs deployed across multiple schools. Applications must be submitted by eligible entities, including public entities and nonprofit organizations with verified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Collaborations with Watertown Public Schools are required, and principal approval is mandatory before applying. Teachers must coordinate with their school leadership teams, and programs involving external personnel must be submitted by a principal or district leader to ensure appropriate safety measures are in place. Grants are not available to individuals or organizations with 501(c)(4) status. The foundation will not fund field trip transportation, snacks, furniture, buses, teacher travel, or professional development stipends for current school employees. The 2025 application window opens on October 20 and closes on November 14. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by the end of December. Grant reporting is required within 30 days of program completion. Online submission is mandatory, and previous grantees must submit a final report before applying again. Applicants will receive confirmation via email once their proposals are submitted. Although this grant opportunity concludes in 2025, applicants are encouraged to join the foundation’s mailing list for announcements regarding future rounds. Non-school-based educational programs are directed to apply to the foundation’s general Program Grant offered in the spring. For inquiries, the foundation can be reached at [email protected].

Programs must align with collaborative or school-wide goals; must avoid disallowed expenses.