Grants

Grant applications are currently closed. 

Each year, the NSHS PTSO sets aside a substantial portion of its budget to fund special projects. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to apply for a grant that may help bring new initiatives, programs or activities to life. Our core goal is to fund programs that promote learning, wellness and our community values. In preparing an application, please consider whether the proposal would:

  • Reinforce or support student learning  (programmatic or curricular);
  • Foster personal connections and/or a sense of community;
  • Pilot a new program or improve learning tools;
  • Champion participation in community service activities;
  • Fund the purchase of equipment or technology that enhances the learning environment or aids in everyday operational efficiency;
  • Support health, safety or well being; or
  • Enhance the learning environment.

Please review the guidelines and procedures listed below and note that the submission deadline is Monday, November 4, 2024. If funds remain after the first round of grants are made, we will have a second round in January/February 2025. Please note that most awards range between $100 and $500, though larger grants may be considered, particularly if they involve collaboration between groups.

GUIDELINES – The Grants Committee will consider the following in evaluation grant applications:

  1. The number of students/people participating in and/or benefiting from the program/project, and the overall impact on students and the school.
  2. The ability of the project to continue without additional PTSO funds. In most cases, funding is not provided for on-going support of programs.
  3. Consistency with the school’s community values and goals as listed on the NSHS website.
  4. All student requests require approval and support from a member of the NSHS educational staff.
  5. The grants committee requires a detailed list and invoices/receipts for items purchased and any other expenses when you submit your request for reimbursement. If you determine you will be unable to spend the funds by the end of the academic year, please notify the Grants Committee so we can reallocate the funds.
  6. Grants must be spent only on specific application requests. If there is a change in the request, the Grants Committee will need to review and approve the modifications.
  7. Requests for conference fees and travel expenses will be considered only after applicants have applied for departmental, school and/or district funding.
  8. Ongoing clubs and organizations that are fundraising for philanthropic purposes outside of the school will be asked to cover their costs before charitable donations are made.
  9. Grants cannot be used to fund salaries, stipends or school-based professional development.
  10. Grants cannot be used to purchase core curriculum technology or materials, including computers, consumables and many peripherals.
  11. Grants cannot be used for clubs, field trips, transportation, food or promotional items.
  12. Per PTSO policies, grants cannot be used for direct donations to charities.

PROCEDURE: Grant applications must be submitted by November 4, 2024. After the application window closes, the PTSO Grants Committee will review all requests and make recommendations to the PTSO Board. Grant applications are also reviewed by the principal with input from the bursar. Decisions will be announced by mid- to late November. If additional funds remain, we will open a second round of applications in early 2025.  Regardless of the grant cycle, awarded grants must be spent during the current academic year and only on items specified in the application. Please feel free contact the Grants Committee at grants@newtonsouthptso.org with any questions.

Here is the link for the grant application.

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant!

2024-25 PTSO Grants Committee: Jessica Berns, Julie Tishler, Lijuan Jiang, Lisa Weinman, Ali Sherman