sphero STEAM-Based Education Tools User Guide
- October 27, 2023
- sphero
Table of Contents
sphero STEAM-Based Education Tools
This guide provides information regarding funding and grant resources that are available to help you implement Sphero’s STEAM-based education tools into your programs.
FEDERAL GRANTS
Formula grants use formulas determined by Congress and have no
application process.
Discretionary grants are awarded using a competitive process based on
criteria.
Search for open discretionary grant opportunities.
FUNDING SOURCE KEY INFORMATION
ESSER Funds (CARES Act)
States have discretion in how ESSER funding can be used, including for
- Summer or after-school programs
- Efforts to address learning loss
- Assessments
- Instructional Materials
- Professional Development
- ESEA (Title I, Part A) Targets disadvantaged students and classrooms.
- ESSA (Title II) Targets educators who are enhancing their knowledge of STEM teaching.
- OESTE (Title V, Part A) State-administered formula grant program designed to improve student academic achievement and the quality of education for all students.
- ESSA (Title IV, Part B) Targets 21st-century community learning centers.
- IDEA Targets students with autism and language disabilities.
- Carl D. Perkins Funds Targets career and technical education (secondary and post-secondary).
- EIR Grants Target high-need students.
- National Science Foundation AISL Targets informal STEM Learning programs.
STATE GRANTS
Each state determines its own way to allocate general funds and awarding extra
funds as grants.
Block grants require districts to apply for funding, and districts must
make a case for why they should receive the funds.
Special funding is allocated for targeted programs such as special
education, technology, and gifted and at-risk populations.
The Education Commission of the States has information on programs by state here.
CORPORATE GRANTS
Companies of all sizes are dedicating funds each year to STEM education through their foundations. The award amounts vary widely, from hundreds of dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Below are just a few focused on science, technology, engineering, and math in K12 schools.
FUNDING SOURCE KEY INFORMATION
- Toshiba America Foundation is Designed specifically to help teachers fund project-based learning in math and science in both public and private schools (K 12).
- Motorola Solutions Foundation Aims to improve STEM programs that support students of all backgrounds with an emphasis on special populations underrepresented in STEM fields, including girls and minorities.
- Verizon Foundation Funding supports projects that promote STEM learning, including classroom technology, summer or after-school programs, and teacher training.
To learn more about applying for grants, check out Sphero’s comprehensive Guide to STEM funding.