Grant Writing and Federal Programs

The IU acts as the fiscal agent for pass-through grant funding to school districts.  Federal Title I funds are obtained and managed for the benefit of eligible IU programs, and federal Title II funds for professional development are administered on behalf of a consortium of participating nonpublic schools.  IU staff can offer grant writing support for competitive proposals as capacity allows.  E-Rate funding is obtained for the benefit of the Regional Wide-Area Network consortium, and E-Rate application consulting is available to school districts to assist with funding for technology needs.  For more information, contact Educational Funding Coordinator Brian Driscol at 570-673-6001 x2026 or bdriscoll@iu17.org.

Grant-writing services are available for a number of projects. Of highest priority are those providing resources for IU programs, and those benefiting the greatest number of school districts and nonpublic schools serviced by BLaST IU 17. Collaborative efforts involving the IU as an active proposal partner, plus grants for individual districts, are written on an as-available basis with assistance from school personnel.

Introductory Grant-writing Workshops – These after-school programs are offered each year for educators throughout the BLaST IU17 service area. Providing a thumbnail sketch of funding fundamentals, they outline the proposal writing process, as well as identification of potential resources.

Consultation – For the person unsure about pursuing a grant, or who has an idea and is uncertain as to the next steps, BLaST IU17 can offer recommendations. This is done without cost on an as-available basis.

Editing of Grants – If you are submitting a grant and would like to have a third-party reading of your work, we can provide such a service. Editing is done without cost on an as-available basis.

Nonpublic School Programs:

Title V – Provides resources for the purchase of nonsectarian instructional and curriculum materials to nonpublic schools electing to participate in this federally funded program. Schools may choose grade-appropriate materials based upon identification of student needs and educational objectives to be met.

Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Program – Provides resources for prevention activities in the areas of tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use. All programs are coordinated in meetings of a Community Advisory Council, composed of parents, school administrators, and representatives of health and community agencies.

Public School Programs:

School Safety and Security – Periodic grant-funded programs designed to provide public and nonpublic school personnel with an opportunity to examine safety and security issues.

Title I Parent Workshops – Annual one-day programs for parents of students receiving Title I services; involves participants in a variety of workshops related to helping children with reading and mathematics skills.