FAQ

Listed below is a series of answers to our most frequently asked questions for educators about our grant funding guidelines. If your question isn’t answered below, or you need further guidance, please send us a message using our contact form.

I have an idea? Where do I start?

We love hearing new ideas!

If you’re wondering whether your project is a good fit, don’t hesitate to reach out before you apply. We’re happy to help you brainstorm ideas, answer questions, or provide feedback on your application.

Rebecca Ketelsen, Executive Director
(608) 807-8180/ [email protected]

What We Love to Fund:

SPEF exists to help educators create learning experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom.

We invest in extraordinary learning opportunities* that unlock potential by inspiring curiosity, removing barriers, building community connections, and helping every student discover what’s possible.

Projects that are often the strongest fit:

• Hands-on, experiential learning opportunities
• Creative and innovative teaching ideas
• Projects that spark curiosity and exploration
• Opportunities that remove barriers to student success
• Student-led learning and leadership opportunities
• Partnerships between schools and the community
• Projects that can inspire or be replicated by other educators
• Programs that create lasting impact beyond a single event or activity

If your project helps students experience learning in a new and meaningful way, we’d love to hear about it. 

*Extraordinary Learning Opportunities Defined: Exceptional, unique, and impactful educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom that inspire students, deepen engagement, open doors to new skills, ideas and opportunities.

Please Note:  Classroom snacks for middle school and high schools are provided through our Food For Thought program and a grant application is NOT needed.   Contact Rebecca Ketelsen at [email protected] for more information.

Who Can Apply?

Grant funding is available for projects that directly benefit Sun Prairie youth.

Eligible applicants include:

• Sun Prairie Area School District employees
• Sun Prairie Area School District students
• Parent or caregiver organizations
• Certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Sun Prairie youth

Projects must benefit students within the Sun Prairie Area School District.

Do you fund general operating grants?

The vast majority of our grants are awarded for programmatic support.

Before You Apply:

Ask yourself these four questions:

• Does this provide students with an opportunity they wouldn’t otherwise have?
• Is this something beyond the district’s normal operating budget?
• Can I clearly explain how students will benefit?
• Will this make learning more engaging, creative, or meaningful?
• Will your project benefit Sun Prairie kids?

If you answered yes to these questions, your project is likely a great fit for SPEF funding.

What Falls Outside Our Funding Priorities:

To maximize our impact for students and educators, SPEF prioritizes innovative projects and

generally does not fund the following:

Personnel & Professional Development

• Salaries, wages, stipends, substitute teachers, or ongoing staffing
• Professional development, conferences, workshops, or staff training

District Responsibilities

• Required curriculum
• Technology or equipment included in the district replacement cycle
• Standard classroom furniture
• Transportation provided by the district
• Building maintenance, repairs, facility improvements, or capital projects

Individual or Competitive Expenses

• Individual scholarships or tuition assistance
• Competition uniforms, travel, or participation expenses

Other Ineligible Requests

• Political or religious activities
• Applications with unspecified speakers or consultants
• Applications submitted after the application deadline
• Projects already completed before funding approval
• Duplicate requests for previously funded projects unless there is demonstrated

How Much Funding Can I Request?

There is no minimum or maximum grant amount.

Most grants awarded range from $500 to $5,000, although larger requests may be considered based on project impact, alignment with our mission, and available funding.

How are Grant Applications Selected?

Every application is unique, but our Grant Committee generally considers:

• Alignment with SPEF’s mission
• Innovation and creativity
• Student impact
• Number of students who will benefit
• Removal of barriers to participation
• Long-term value or sustainability
• Opportunities for collaboration
• Available funding

Who Reviews The Submitted Grant Applications?

Applications are first reviewed by the SPEF Grant Committee.

The Grant Committee recommendations are then presented to the SPEF Board of Trustees for final approval.

All funding decisions made by the Board are final.

When Are The Applications Due?

Grant applications are reviewed twice each year.

Applications follow the SPASD Calendar and are considered at the end of the first and third quarter each year.

Click HERE to access the SPASD Calendar.  

Applications submitted after a review period will automatically be considered during the next grant cycle.

Who Should I Contact To Discuss My Grant Idea?

You may contact Rebecca Ketelsen, Executive Director, at (608)807-8180 to discuss your project idea.   You may also reach out to anyone who serves on the  SPEF Board.  Check out our Trustee page for a full list.

If My Grant Application Is Not Funded, May I Reapply?

Yes. Applicants are welcome to reapply in the following grant cycle.

If your grant application is not funded, it may not mean your idea lacks merit or fails to meet our mission interests.  It may simply mean we may not have the funds to award the grant at this time.  All grants not funded will be sent a letter outlining the reasons funding was not available and you are encouraged to speak with the Executive Director if you have any further questions.

How Long Do I Have To Spend My Grant Funds?

Grant recipients have up to two years to complete their project and spend awarded funds.

Looking For Inspiration?

Visit our Grants in Action page to explore projects funded throughout Sun Prairie schools.

You’ll find hundreds of examples of innovative ideas that have inspired students, supported educators, and made learning unforgettable.

Still Have Questions?

We are here to help!

Whether you have a rough idea, need help developing a budget, or just want to know if your project is a good fit, we’d love to talk with you before you apply.

Rebecca Ketelsen
Executive Director
Sun Prairie Education Foundation
(608) 807-8180/[email protected]