The NEA Foundation for the Improvement of Education

Programs: Closing the Achievement Gaps: grants of up to $2.5 million over five years strive to close the achievement gaps for economically disadvantaged and minority students while making progress for all, and to develop and sustain conditions that enable all students to be prepared to enroll in post-secondary institutions without remediation. Student Achievement Grants Program: funds work that improves student achievement in public schools and higher education institutions. Grant supported work engages students in critical thinking, inquiry and self-directed learning that deepens knowledge of standards-based subject matter in one or more subject areas. These $5000 grants are made directly to public school educators. Learning and Leadership Grants Program: supports high-quality professional development opportunities for public school educators, such as summer institutes, action research, collegial study, lesson study and mentoring. These grant amounts are $2000 for individuals and $5000 for groups. The NEA Foundation presents awards to public school educators, exemplary grantees, higher education faculty and staff, public figures, and other leaders who contribute to the advancement of public education and teaching excellence at the annual Salute to Excellence in Education Gala. At the event, The NEA Foundation Awards for Teaching Excellence recognize individuals who exhibit outstanding teaching, creativity, community engagement, advocacy, attention to diversity, and professional development. Throughout the year, the NEA Foundation awards close to 200 grants to support educators' efforts to close the achievement gaps, develop creative learning opportunities for students, and enhance their own professional development. There are two primary grant categories open to public education professionals: Student Achievement Grants and Learning & Leadership Grants.