General Guidelines

Grant applications should: 

• Provide a letter of approval from the school principal, 
• Demonstrate foresight and careful planning for long-term impact, 
• Articulate clear, measurable goals,
• Support specific STEAM initiatives, not capital campaigns, 
• Support new initiatives, not supplant existing programs,
• Include an evaluation plan by which goals are measured, 
• Provide a line-item budget and narrative,
• Reflect sufficient organizational and managerial capacity to carry out the project, 
• Provide evidence of fund expenditure within the 2022-2023 academic year. 

Purchasing Guidelines

• Maximum purchase amount is $7,000.
• Purchases may be anything which supports STEAM initiatives in the classroom.
• Suggestions are included below. Other STEAM initiatives may be presented but will be pre-screened to evaluate for maintenance and upkeep. 
  • Science
    • KiwiCo STEM Classroom Kit
      • Project sets that explore science & engineering.
        • https://www.kiwico.com/schools-and-groups/classroom-packs
      • Cost per 10-Pack = $124.95
    • Smart Media SMT-65 Multitouch Table
      • Innovative multi-touch interactive surface designed to make learning more engaging and exciting.
        • https://www.smartmediaworld.net/products/interactive-tables.html
      • Cost per unit = $5,067.12
    • Apple iPad sensors 
      • More than 50 sensors available through Vernier Wireless which allow educators to create experiments for use in the classroom. The Graphical Analysis app allows you to collect, analyze and share sensor data.
        • https://www.vernier.com/products/interfaces/gw-link/
        • https://www.vernier.com/products/interfaces/gw-link/#compatible-sensors
        • https://www.vernier.com/products/sensors/go-direct-sensors/   
      • Cost per sensor = starting at $69
  • Technology
    • Augie, the Augmented Reality Robot
      • Augie introduces children to coding language, engaging imagination and creativity while helping them further enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
      • Approximate cost per unit = $59.95

• Micro Bits
  • Handheld, programmable micro-computer which can be used for all sorts of cool creations, from robots to musical instruments.
  • Approximate cost per unit = $20.00
• The Piper Computer Kit
  • Kit which includes everything needed to build a fully functioning computer from start to finish. Once the computer is built, kids progress to a guided series of fun and engaging challenges.
  • Approximate cost per unit = $299.00
• WonderWorkshop: Dash, Cue, Dot
  • Family of robots and age-appropriate apps to encourage hands-on play and learning to make creative problem-solving concrete and tangible.
  • Approximate cost per unit: 
    • Dash = $150.00, 
    • Cue = $199.99,
    • Dot = $79.99.
• Engineering
  • 3D Printer & Rapid Prototyping
    • Allows for the introduction of 3D design and printing and is an excellent way to boost STEM learning for all ages. 
    • Approximate cost range per unit = $300 - $4,600
  • LEGO® Education SPIKE Prime Set 
    • Colorful LEGO® building elements, easy-to-use hardware, and an intuitive drag-and-drop coding language based on Scratch 

which engages students through playful learning activities to think critically and solve complex problems, regardless of their learning level. 

• Approximate cost per set = $329.95
• Arts
  • Visiting artist workshop.
    • Carlos Nieto, Comic book artist & illustrator leads students through the creation of their own comic books.
    • Approximate cost per workshop = $1,500
  • School-Wide Art Installation.
    • Students & staff work collaboratively to create a permanent art installation on campus.
    • Cost varies

• Mathematics
  • Oculus Rift 3D Virtual Reality Headset Kit.
    • Headsets/Goggles which allow for immersion into various virtual reality applications. Potential as a visualization tool for 3D models found in mathematics courses.  
    • Approximate cost per unit = $350.00
  • Outdoor Learning Walks.
    • Outdoor signage along a path focusing on math in nature. Cross-curriculum; can be changed out throughout the year to feature students’ artwork, writing, student-created learning opportunities.
    • Barking Dog Exhibits offers outdoor signage - https://bdexhibits.com/.  
    • Approximate cost per sign = $288.00

• Purchases may go to one or more educational settings in a single school. 
  • Having 20 pieces of equipment set up in a library is as acceptable as having 2 pieces of equipment in ten different classrooms/resource setting.
• If applicable, educators should confirm which technology components are acceptable and/or allowed in their school or district.
• The Computer Information Systems and Engineering Technology areas at NSU are willing to provide training sessions on the use of certain technologies. Assistance is dependent upon state and agency guidelines.

Evaluation Guidelines

In reviewing grant proposals, the A+ Coalition generally utilizes the following evaluation criteria: 

• Is there an established need for the project for which the grant is requested? How was that need determined? 
• Is the applicant able to effectively manage the project? 
• How many students will be directly served by the project? 
• Is the project well planned and likely to succeed, per the outcomes noted in the application? 
• Is the budget realistic? Are existing dollars being used to supplement the project?

• Does the project support the goals and mission of the A+ Coalition, which is to advance education in Natchitoches parish?