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LEAF

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About Us

Established in 2000 to benefit the students of Lamar CISD, the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (LEAF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors comprised of local business, industry, and community leaders. LEAF provides financial support for educational programs and activities that go beyond the district’s regular operating budget, benefiting both students and staff.

LEAF proudly funds a wide range of initiatives, including classroom innovation grants and campus improvement initiatives. To sustain these impactful programs, LEAF partners with local foundations, corporate donors, and community supporters, while hosting several signature fundraising events such as the New Staff Stampede, Golf Fore Greatness Tournament, Men Who Cook, and Surfs Up each year.

Additionally, the Employee Giving Program plays a crucial role in our fundraising efforts, with Lamar CISD staff members generously contributing a portion of their payroll to help us achieve our mission. Every bit counts.

We are deeply grateful for the continued support of our community and the dedication of our donors. Together, we are making a lasting impact, and we are honored to call you a Friend of the Foundation.


Fall 2024 LEAF Grant Applications Now Open!

FALL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAVEL GRANT INFORMATION

We are pleased to announce that applications for the Fall Professional Development Travel Grant are now being accepted from September 9 through October 4, 2024. This grant is designed to assist instructional staff with out-of-pocket expenses for professional development travel during the academic year.

Eligibility
All instructional staff are encouraged to apply. Please note that each applicant is eligible to receive one travel grant per academic year, which includes both Fall and Spring application periods.

Award Details
Grant awards range from $100 to $500. Funds may be used for expenses such as conference registration, accommodation, meals, and travel-related costs. Recipients will be required to submit receipts for reimbursement, up to the $500 limit, and complete an evaluation form upon the conclusion of their professional development experience.

Application Process
Applications must be submitted electronically through our online application link. Paper applications will not be accepted. To ensure maximum outreach, we kindly ask for your assistance in sharing this opportunity with instructional staff on your campus.

Apply now and enhance your professional journey! Access the Professional Development Travel Grant Application {HERE}


LEAF CLASSROOM INNOVATION GRANT INFORMATION

We are excited to announce that applications for the Classroom Innovation Grant are now open from September 9 through October 9, 2024. The foundation offers two types of innovation grants: Individual Classroom Grants and Department-Level Grants.

  • Individual Classroom Grants are designed for a single educator to enhance and enrich classroom instruction in areas not covered by regular budgetary funds or reimbursable by other sources.
  • Department-Level Grants support initiatives that benefit multiple classrooms or an entire campus department.

Both types of grants aim to transform learning environments and provide academic enrichment opportunities for students.

Eligibility
All instructional staff are encouraged to apply.

Award Details

  • Individual Classroom Grants range from $100 to $1,500.
  • Department-Level Grants range from $100 to $4,000.

Recipients are required to complete an evaluation form, submit photos, and send a thank-you card upon completing their project.

Application Process
All applications must be submitted electronically via our online application link. Paper applications will not be accepted. We appreciate your help in spreading the word to instructional staff members on your campus.

Apply now to bring your innovative classroom ideas to life! Access the LEAF Innovation Grant Application {HERE}


LEAF GRANT APPLICATION RESOURCES

  • LEAF Grant 101 PDF: This document provides a comprehensive overview of the goals, policies, guidelines, and terms of the grant program. [Access the LEAF Grant 101 document HERE].
  • LEAF Travel Grant Application & Rubric: Includes a printable version of the travel grant application for reference and planning only. You must submit a draft to your principal for review and approval before submitting your proposal online. [Access the LEAF Travel Grant Application & Rubric HERE].
  • LEAF Innovation Grant Application & Rubric: This document contains a printable version of the innovation grant application for reference. Submit a draft to your principal for review and approval before submitting the final version online. [Access the Innovation Grant Application & Rubric HERE].
  • Technology Price List: If your grant proposal includes Apple products, licenses, or laptops, use this price list. Enter the quantity and pricing into the LEAF Budget form as needed. [Access the LEAF Grant Technology Pricing HERE].
  • Grant Budget Form: This required form should be included with every application. Be sure to provide product links, photos, quotes, and spreadsheets to create a complete budget and ordering document. Ensure all attachments are free of identifiable information. [Access the LEAF Grant Budget Form HERE].
  • Grant Writing Training: Please check back for training updates and videos to aid in the grant writing process. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to our office at [email protected] or (832) 223 – 0334.
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Become a Friend of the Foundation

Invest in growing your academic community by becoming a Friend of the Foundation today! Click HERE to enroll in the LEAF Employee Giving Program! If you are unsure of your Lamar CISD Employee #, locate it HERE.

Share Your #LEAFinAction Photos

We need your help telling our story. Please share your “Grant in Action” photos HERE for a chance to be featured on our social media accounts and grant review reports! Don’t forget to tag us in your posts and use the hashtag #LEAFinAction.

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