Mini-Grants
Announcing the 2024-25 Mini-Grants Program!
Dear Shuang Wen Teachers and Staff:
The PA’s mission is to provide support and resources to PS 184M Shuang Wen School for the benefit and educational growth of all students.
To further this mission—and to encourage YOUR creativity and innovation—the PA is setting aside a pool of $10,000 to fund teacher- and staff-proposed projects and purchases for the benefit of Shuang Wen students. $5,000 will be reserved for the fall semester and $5,000 for the spring semester.
With this “mini-grant” program, we are looking for projects that enrich student experience, deepen learning, and enhance or differentiate classroom instruction.
Examples of possible projects include:
A pilot project to test out Chinese reading pens for younger elementary students
3D printer for middle school students
Supplies for classroom Earth Day projects
Prizes, snacks or supplies for a family engagement activity, such as Math Night or Literacy Night
Games or art supplies for kids to use at indoor recess
Set-up costs for establishing a new after-school club
Please be mindful of the following:
The per-student cost. The PA strives to fund projects that directly serve as many students and families as possible.
Timing. A 2-month lead time will give us enough time to consider the application, request any clarifications and bring it to the general membership for a vote. We cannot consider requests for reimbursement after the fact, so submit your application before incurring any expenses.
Items purchased with Mini-Grant funds must be used during the school year and remain in the school as school property.
The application procedure is detailed below. We will begin reviewing proposals in August. For any questions, send us an email at contact@shuangwenpa.org.
We appreciate your dedication and look forward to supporting you this year!
Shuang Wen Parent Association Executive Board
How to Apply for a Mini-Grant
Requests for funding are accepted on a rolling basis, reviewed by the PA Executive Board (E-Board) and voted on by the general membership.
Please plan ahead. A 2-month lead time is ideal. For example, in March, the E-Board meets on March 13 and the General Membership meeting is March 27. If you are in need of supplies to supplement lessons that you are giving in April, a request submitted in March may not be approved in time.
To apply:
Ask the school administration first if there is money available for your request. If the answer is no, then you may proceed with the Mini-Grant application.
Submit the online form. The E-Board will send you a confirmation email that your application was received. We may also request further clarification/information.
Requests that are received at least 7 days before an E-Board meeting will be reviewed at that meeting. (Bookmark our meeting schedule here: https://www.shuangwenpa.org/calendar)
Requests for reimbursement after the fact cannot be considered. Submit your request before incurring any expenses.
Emergency requests may be expedited at the discretion of the E-Board. Please email us at contact[at]shuangwenpa.org if you need to discuss.
After receiving preliminary approval by the E-Board, the request will be voted on at the next scheduled General Membership meeting.
After final approval:
If your grant is less than $300, you may make the purchases and submit all receipts with the approved request for reimbursement.
If your grant is $300 or greater, the PA will pay vendors directly. Please make sure you have attached all applicable forms, including invoices and a W-9 from the vendor.
Please email all documentation to contact@shuangwenpa.org.
You may be asked to share your Mini-Grant submission and experience at a monthly PA meeting and/or in the PA’s email newsletter.
We will begin reviewing proposals for 2024-25 in August. You may prepare and submit your application earlier, if desired.