FUNDING IDEAS & OPTIONS

Example: NCTE’s Annual Convention happens this November; it’s the premier professional learning opportunity available for ELA educators. You can learn more about it on this website: convention.ncte.org. Attending is a way for me to meet leading teacher voices, research scholars, and authors to continue my growth in service of students and literacy. Can we find funds to support this important experience for me?

Example: Use template. A best practice is to lift up the anticipated impact that attending will have on your practice and that of your colleagues (by presenting back to them key takeaways from the professional learning upon returning), and therefore, on student achievement.

• If not approved for full funding/reimbursement, propose partial support. Example: I understand the reasons for why fully funding this opportunity is not possible. Would you consider partially funding this PD for me so that I may still be able to attend?
• Ask if there is special funding, has increased the allocation toward professional learning in your department. Example: I know that certain funds can be used for professional development and have deadlines. Has the allotment for our department changed as the result of these funds?

You can get a very clear picture of exactly how much this event will cost by looking at the Registration and Hotel & Travel pages of the website.

Learn more about the scholarships; the deadline was September 8.

The support for getting teachers the professional learning and experiences they deserve is out there—make public your wish to attend and explicitly state your need(s).