Do
|
Don't
|
| Read and re-read the proposal guidelines and answer all the guidelines questions |
Omit any of the required information |
| Be specific |
Be philosophical |
| Be serious |
Be dull |
| Be positive by emphasizing opportunity rather than need |
Limit your proposal to a few students unless NEED is a major factor that has been clearly stated in the proposal |
| Eliminate all jargon and avoid emotional appeal |
Assume the funding source understands technical terms (e.g., IEP, SST, etc.) |
| Approach the project with an innovative or creative teaching strategy that will engage learners. |
Ask for funding of items which are currently funded within the instructional budgets of your school. |
| Check for errors in spelling, grammar, etc. |
Think the funding source does not mind if your proposal looks sloppy |
| Have others review the draft proposal |
Submit your proposal at the last minute |
| Give an itemized budget which is as complete as possible, listing items and prices and being as specific as possible |
Generalize the budgeted items you need |
| Budgeted items should include only current technologies or justify the need for older technologies |
Include out-of-date technologies, e.g., VHS vs. DVD or tape vs. CD |
| Provide samples, articles or other material of interest which would demonstrate your creative or innovative concept |
Assume the funding source will immediately see why your project should be funded |
| Attempt to reach as many students as possible with the project (within the class, grade level, department, school, etc.). |
Focus your proposal on plans which will only be used for a single school term instead of being reusable for future students |
| Write clear evaluation strategies to determine the value of these funds in meeting the purpose or goals of the grant |
Describe the evaluation process as a vague idea without clear measurement criteria |
| Be ready to present your grant (you may bring your Principal or other staff involved) |
Try to present your grant without at least one practice session describing it to colleagues |
| TRY to keep your sense of humor and enjoy the process |
Think it's the end of the world if your grant is not funded. Listen to suggestions and try again. |