Richland County teachers can access funds for their innovative ideas

Technology is changing how educators teach in the classroom and the Richland County Foundation Board of Trustees is adapting its Teacher Assistance Program to keep up with changing times. That is why the board recently modified the criteria and grant total for the Teacher Assistance Program (TAP).

Teachers can now apply for grants of up to $1,500 instead of $1,000 and they can use the funds for software and technology.

Glenna Cannon, Foundation Board of Trustees member and Pioneer Career and Technology Center superintendent said the changes were made following conversations with school superintendents and principals in the county.

Ms. Cannon said, “Everything has changed in our schools. Children know technology. They are using iPads in kindergarten. We want to help teachers access technology so they can be effective, innovative and creative in their classrooms.

“Teachers do not have the funds for what they really want to do in the classroom and TAP is a way to help them reach their goals.”

TAP awards grants directly to K-12 teachers in 501c3 public or private Richland County schools to encourage them to develop new programs, projects, or events for their classrooms.

A one-hour grant writing workshop will be held Wednesday, June 11 at 10 a.m. in the Community Room at the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library, 43 West Third Street, Mansfield. The workshop is not required, but is recommended. RSVP to Krisi Johnston - 419-525-3020, kjohnston@rcfoundation.org

The deadline to apply for a TAP grant is Friday, July 11.