In 2016, the Minnesota Legislature created a new $500,000 grant program for teacher-governed schools (or, as we call them, teacher-powered schools) inside school districts.

Overview of the Program

Eligibility. To be eligible, a school must provide a signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the school board and the local union, encouraging the teachers at the school to explore site-governed status. The grant is available both to existing schools converting to site-governed status, and to newly created schools.

Amount of the grant. Schools being created new or just beginning the conversion process can apply for a one-year planning grant of up to $50,000. Schools already operating as site-governed, teacher-powered schools can apply for a one-year implementation grant of up to $100,000.

Deadline. Applications are due no later than Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at 3:30 PM Central Time, however funds are limited so applicants should apply as soon as possible (see “first-come first-serve” below). Applications must be submitted by mail to: Tamara Valme, 1500 Highway 36 West – F7, Roseville, MN 55113-4266. Faxed or emailed applications will not be accepted.

First-come first-serve. Applications will be reviewed and considered for funding in the order that they are received. Therefore, the funding opportunity may close prior to the deadline if all funds are awarded prior to that date.

Resources and Next Steps

• Download the instruction document, the application form, and the budget template (from Minnesota Department of Education)
• Questions? Contact Tamara Valme, School Support Specialist at Minnesota Department of Education, at tamara.valme@state.mn.us
• Education Evolving is also happy to chat with groups considering this grant; contact us at info@educationevolving.org
• The full appropriation language from session law