Arkansas Community Foundation’s Science Initiative for Middle Schools (SIMS) is planting seeds of support for growing young minds. Hands-on classroom activities can foster students’ curiosity and instill a love of learning, but they can also be costly to execute. That’s why 27 of our local affiliates are participating in the SIMS program to provide $500 awards for local middle school science teachers to purchase consumable science materials for STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) projects.
Here are 5 steps to make sure you’re up to speed on the application process:
1. Know your eligibility: To apply for a SIMS minigrant, you must teach science in grade 5, 6, 7 or 8 at a public school in at least one of the 40 Arkansas counties listed here.
2. Know when to submit: Make sure your application is submitted between July 1 and October 1 of 2015.
3. Know how to apply: Through a partnership with DonorsChoose.org, we’ve established a streamlined online application process. Go to www.DonorsChoose.org/SIMS to complete an online application and select the science materials you need for your project.
4. Know how you’ll receive the grant: Lastly, if you meet all of the qualifications, your application will be given to the grantmaking committee of the Community Foundation affiliate in your area. Up to 300 (yes, 300!) projects from across the state will be selected for full funding! If your project is selected, DonorsChoose will ship your materials directly to you at your school. It’s that simple! And the best part? Because DonorsChoose is a national organization working to match up donors who want to support education projects and teachers who need help, your project will be visible to thousands of other potential donors who may also choose to chip in to support your project.
5. Know when you’d be notified if you win: Local committees will review all the proposals submitted by teachers in their respective areas and decide which ones to fund. Winners will be notified in November.
Questions? Call our Central Office to talk through any questions you might have at 501-372-1116.