Management
ISTELive 25: Fund K–12 Projects with Creativity and Advocacy
Funding is never easy to navigate in K–12 schools, but it’s particularly tough recently for some districts. Experts at ISTELive 25 shared how school leaders can approach their budgets and their local changemakers.
Looking at budgets like a puzzle can help districts get creative when it comes to new streams of funding. Finding money in one area can free up dollars elsewhere, meaning school leaders shouldn’t always look for tech funding when they need to purchase tech solutions.
Advocacy and connection with local groups can also lead to better investments for schools. Working with an internal grants team can make these initiatives manageable for K–12 administrators and technology professionals.
RELATED: Capitalize on blended funding and critical funding periods.
Participants
David Rupert, Academic Director, Matteson School District 162 and Southland College Prep Charter High School
Sheryl Abshire, Former CTO, Calcasieu Parish Public Schools
John Harrington, CEO, Funds for Learning
Video Highlights
- Get creative when funding projects. Look for money in other areas that can free up budget related to anticipated projects.
- Outreach and social media help school leaders build relationships with community organizations that can provide funding.
- Advocating to state leaders can open funding avenues for K–12 schools.
