Welcome to the Pasco Education Foundation Funding Opportunities Portal!
Innovative Classroom Projects – Currently Open
Open to: Teachers and Grade-Level Leads
Every great classroom moment starts with an idea, and Innovative Classroom Projects are here to help make it happen. The Pasco Education Foundation provides Pasco County educators with the financial support to bring creative curriculum, special activities, and hands-on projects to life, inspiring students and empowering the teachers who serve them. Individual projects are eligible for up to $1,000; funding for group projects may vary.
Project L.E.A.D. – Currently Open
Open to: Principals, Instructional Training Coaches, and District Leaders
The Pasco Education Foundation's Project L.E.A.D. program supports educators bringing bold ideas to life. We fund school-wide and district-wide projects that advance student learning, build resilience, and open new pathways for every student. Awards start at $2,500.
Professional Development Support – Currently Open
Open to: Principals, Instructional Training Coaches, and District Leaders
Strong schools are built by strong people. The Pasco Education Foundation is committed to investing in the educators and staff who make that possible. Whether you're an individual looking to advance your education, a team seeking resources for professional growth, or a leader building capacity across your school or department. Awards vary based on the program.
Employee Education – Currently Open
Open to all Pasco County Schools Employees (previously Employee Scholarships)
Your growth matters - to you, your students, and the future of Pasco County Schools. The Employee Education Program provides financial assistance to district employees pursuing degrees, certifications, or coursework that helps them do what they do best, even better. Award amount: $500.
Process
1. Register
Click on the "Register" link and complete and submit the registration form.
2. Login
Login to the platform with your email and password.
3. Create
Create your online application.
4. Save
During the open applications period, your application can be saved as DRAFT until all the required information is completed and attachments uploaded. As each section is complete, you will see a
appear in the category tab when the application is saved. At any time, you can download and print your application by clicking on the
icon in the Application Summary section.
5. Submit
On completion, save your Application as FINAL. Download and print a copy of your application for your records by clicking on the
icon in the Application Summary section in the right column. If an update is required prior to the Open Applications period, you can make the update and resave as FINAL.
If you require assistance or additional information, please contact the Program Administrator.
About Innovative Classroom Projects
Open to: Teachers and Grade-Level Leads
Every teacher has ideas that could transform their classroom, but budgets don't always make them possible. The Innovative Classroom Projects program gives Pasco County teachers the financial resources to bring those ideas to life, funding creative curriculum, special activities, and classroom projects that spark student engagement and drive lasting learning.
Award amounts: Individual projects are eligible for up to $1,000; funding for group projects may vary. Award funds must be spent by May 28, 2027.
Reporting: Mid-project status updates and a year-end review are required. Semester testing scores will be requested where applicable.
Application Timeline
Applications received by July 15 will be reviewed and awarded in August.
Applications received by September 15 will be reviewed and awarded in October.
What We’re Looking For
We award projects that are substantive in content and positioned to make a meaningful impact on student learning. Strong applications will demonstrate instructional alignment with school and district goals, including the School Improvement Plan and the District Success Plan; a clearly defined, measurable educational outcome; and the potential for ongoing or future implementation beyond the initial grant period.
Subject Areas Considered:
- Art & Music (Fine Arts)
- Career & Technical Education
- ELA/Reading
- Exceptional Student Education
- Health & Physical Education
- Language Acquisition
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
In 2025–26, we awarded almost $98,302 to our classroom teachers!
How may the money be spent?
This program is partially funded through the School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program, administered by the Consortium for Florida Education Foundations. As a result, all expenditures must comply with state match requirements. All projects must be results-oriented with clearly defined, measurable goals.
Unallowable Expenditures
- Parties, recognition, or awards
- Support of Interscholastic Athletics
- Capital Improvements
- T-Shirts and Clothing
- Decorative Items
- Fundraising
- Repairs and maintenance
- Out-of-state travel
- Field Trips
- Gift cards
- Salaries or compensation for staff
- Furniture
- Technology such as tablets, printers, computers, iPads, cell phones, etc.
- Drones
What is the accounting procedure?
If you select check as your preferred payment method, the check will be made out to your school and deposited into the school's internal accounts. District approved vendors must be used. Your school bookkeeper will provide an Account Activity Report at the close of the grant period, along with proof that all funds were spent in accordance with the project. All funds must be spent by May 28, 2027.
Alternatively, funds may be distributed via ClassWallet, which allows for Amazon purchases and reimbursements.
Application review process
A review committee composed of Pasco Education Foundation board members and district leaders will evaluate all applications.
All applications are reviewed blind. Teacher and school names are removed before the committee sees them, so every project is judged solely on its merit.
All awards are contingent upon available funding. We encourage teachers and principals to collaborate during planning and preparation to submit the strongest possible application.
What is the scoring rubric?
| Project Overview & Need (15 points) |
|
|---|---|
| Educator & Student Impact (25 points) |
|
| Student Impact & Plan (20 points) |
|
| Measurable Outcomes (10 points) |
|
| Budget (5 points) |
|
Equipment Policy:
All materials purchased with program funds become the property of Pasco County Schools. If the awardee leaves the district, items must remain at the original location or be transferred to another location with approval.
Projects are awarded on a competitive basis. Taking the time to prepare a thorough, well-written application makes a real difference. Please keep the following in mind:
- Answer every question completely. Incomplete applications are at a disadvantage in the review process.
- Review non-allowable expenditures. Requests that include non-allowable items may affect your application's eligibility. When in doubt, refer to the "How May the Money Be Spent?" section above or contact Caitlin at csadler@pascoeducationfoundation.org.
- Check with your bookkeeper for approved vendors before planning your budget.
- Submit on time. Late applications cannot be accepted.
- Be specific throughout your application. The strongest applications paint a clear picture: specific goals, specific students, specific outcomes, and a specific plan for getting there. Vague responses are one of the most common reasons strong project ideas don't score as well as they could.
- Reporting is required. Recipients must submit a mid-year status update and a year-end review by the requested deadlines. Teachers who do not complete reporting will not be eligible for future Pasco Education Foundation funding.
Have questions? Reach out to Caitlin Sadler at csadler@pascoeducationfoundation.org — we're happy to help!
About Project L.E.A.D
Open to: Principals, Instructional Training Coaches, and District Leaders



Project L.E.A.D. provides schools and educators with financial support for innovative, high-impact initiatives. From creative curriculum and special activities to school-wide and district-wide projects. The Pasco Education Foundation funds work that meaningfully improves student outcomes and creates lasting change.
Award amounts: Awards start at $2,500 and vary based on project quality, funding requested, available funds, and the number of applications received. Award funds must be spent by May 28, 2027.
Reporting: Mid-project status updates and a year-end review are required. Semester testing scores will be requested where applicable.
Application Timeline
Open year round. Please allow 4–6 weeks for review.
What We’re Looking For
We look for projects that go beyond a one-time activity - ones that are grounded in instruction, connected to your school and district goals, and built to last. Strong applications show a clear link to the School Improvement Plan and District Success Plan, a measurable impact on student learning, and a vision for how the work can continue even after the grant year ends.
How may the money be spent?
This program is partially funded through the School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program, administered by the Consortium for Florida Education Foundations. As a result, all expenditures must comply with state match requirements. All projects must be results-oriented with clearly defined, measurable goals.
Unallowable Expenditures
- Parties, recognition, or awards
- Support of Interscholastic Athletics
- Capital Improvements
- T-Shirts and Clothing
- Decorative Items
- Fundraising
- Repairs and maintenance
- Out-of-state travel
- Field Trips
- Furniture
- Technology such as tablets, printers, computers, iPads, cell phones, etc.
- Drones
Application review process
A review committee composed of Pasco Education Foundation board members and district leaders will evaluate all applications.
All awards are contingent upon available funding. We encourage collaborating during planning and preparation to submit the strongest possible application.
What is the scoring rubric?
| Statement of Need & Clarity (25 points) |
|
|---|---|
| Score & Impact(25 points) |
|
| Project Plan (20 points) |
|
| Measurable Outcomes (20 points) |
|
| Budget (10 points) |
|
Equipment Policy:
All materials purchased with program funds become the property of Pasco County Schools. If the awardee leaves the district, items must remain at the original location or be transferred to another location with approval.
Projects are awarded on a competitive basis, and this program is designed for initiatives with school-wide or district-wide reach. A thorough, well-crafted application makes a real difference. Please keep the following in mind:
- Answer every question completely. Incomplete applications are at a disadvantage in the review process.
- Be specific throughout. The strongest applications paint a clear picture: specific goals, specific students, specific outcomes, and a specific plan for getting there. Vague responses are one of the most common reasons strong project ideas don't score as well as they could.
- Demonstrate impact and sustainability. Reviewers are looking for projects with meaningful, measurable student outcomes and the potential to continue beyond the initial grant period. Make the case for why your project matters and how it will last.
- Review non-allowable expenditures. Requests that include non-allowable items may affect your application's eligibility. When in doubt, contact Jackie at jdanner@pascoeducationfoundation.org.
- Check with your bookkeeper for approved vendors before finalizing your budget.
- Reporting is required. Recipients must submit a mid-year status update and a year-end review by the requested deadlines. Applicants who do not complete reporting will not be eligible for future Pasco Education Foundation funding.
Have questions? Reach out to Jackie Danner at jdanner@pascoeducationfoundation.org — we're happy to help!
About Professional Development Support
Open to: Principals, Instructional Training Coaches, and District Leaders
Strong schools grow from the inside out. The Pasco Education Foundation's Professional Development program supports teams and leaders across Pasco County Schools in accessing the training, workshops, and capacity-building opportunities they need to lead with impact. Whether you're building skills within your team or investing in leadership growth across your department, this grant is designed to meet you where you are.
Award amounts vary based on project quality, funding requested, available funds, and the number of applications received. Award funds must be spent by May 28, 2027.
Reporting: Mid-project status updates and a year-end review are required. Semester testing scores will be requested where applicable.
Application Timeline:
Open year round. Please allow 4-6 weeks for review.
What we're looking for?
The strongest applications do more than describe a training event - they tell a story about lasting change. We're looking for projects rooted in classroom practice, tied to your School Improvement Plan and District Success Plan, and designed to keep making a difference long after the grant year ends. Show us how educators will grow, how students will benefit, and how the work will live on.
Note: This program is for district teams, schools, and groups. If you are an individual, please apply for the Employee Education Scholarship.
How may the money be spent?
This program is partially funded through the School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program, administered by the Consortium for Florida Education Foundations. As a result, all expenditures must comply with state match requirements. All projects must be results-oriented with clearly defined, measurable goals.
Application review process
A review committee composed of Pasco Education Foundation board members and district leaders will evaluate all applications.
All awards are contingent upon available funding. We encourage collaborating during planning and preparation to submit the strongest possible application.
What is the scoring rubric?
| Statement of Need & Clarity (25 points) |
|
|---|---|
| Educator & Student Impact (25 points) |
|
| Training Play & Sustainability (20 points) |
|
| Measurable Outcomes (20 points) |
|
| Budget (10 points) |
|
Equipment Policy:
All materials purchased with program funds become the property of Pasco County Schools. If the awardee leaves the district, items must remain at the original location or be transferred to another location with approval.
Awards are competitive, and this program is designed for professional learning with school-wide or district-wide reach. A thorough, well-crafted application makes a real difference. Please keep the following in mind:
- Answer every question completely. Incomplete applications are at a disadvantage in the review process.
- Be specific throughout. The strongest applications paint a clear picture: specific skills, specific educators, specific student outcomes, and a specific plan for getting there. Vague responses are one of the most common reasons strong ideas don't score as well as they could.
- Demonstrate impact and sustainability. Reviewers are looking for training that produces meaningful, measurable growth in educator practice, and a clear vision for how that learning continues beyond the grant year. Connect your work to your School Improvement Plan and District Success Plan, and make the case for why it will last.
- Review non-allowable expenditures. Requests that include non-allowable items may affect your application's eligibility. When in doubt, contact Jackie at jdanner@pascoeducationfoundation.org.
- Check with your bookkeeper for approved vendors before finalizing your budget.
- Reporting is required. Recipients must submit a mid-year status update and a year-end review by the requested deadlines. Applicants who do not complete reporting will not be eligible for future Pasco Education Foundation funding.
Have questions? Reach out to Jackie Danner at jdanner@pascoeducationfoundation.org — we're happy to help!
About Employee Education Scholarships
Open to: All Pasco County Schools Employees
The Pasco Education Foundation believes that investing in our people is investing in our students. This program provides financial assistance to Pasco County Schools employees pursuing degrees, certifications, or coursework that deepens their expertise and strengthens their ability to serve students. Whether you're working toward an advanced degree or adding a new credential, we're here to help make it possible.
Award amount: $500; may apply once per school year
Reporting: Proof of course completion (if applicable), and a brief end-of-year survey.
Application Timeline
Open year round. Please allow 4-6 weeks for review.
What We’re Looking For
The strongest applications go beyond listing coursework - they show a clear connection between the employee’s educational pursuit and the students/department they serve. We’re looking for applicants who can articulate how their learning will translate into better outcomes for their students, school, and district, and a meaningful plan to bring that knowledge back to their school or team.
Note: This program is for individuals. If you are a district team, school, or group, please apply for the Professional Development Program.
How may the money be spent?
Award funds may be used for conference registration, tuition, fees, books, and other required educational expenses directly related to the approved degree, certification, or coursework.
What will be the Application review process?
A review committee composed of Pasco Education Foundation board members and district leaders will evaluate all applications using a scoring rubric.
What is the scoring rubric?
| Effort & Completeness (Max 5 points) |
|
|---|---|
| Connection to Student & School Benefit (Max 5 points) |
|
| Plan to Share Learning (Max 5 points) |
|
| Clarity of Professional Growth Goal (Max 5 points) |
|
Awards are competitive, and reviewers are looking for applications that demonstrate a genuine commitment to growth and a clear vision for how that learning will benefit their school and district. A thoughtful, well-crafted application makes a real difference. Please keep the following in mind:
- Answer every question completely. Incomplete applications are at a disadvantage in the review process.
- Be specific throughout. The strongest applications paint a clear picture: the specific credential or course being pursued, the specific skills you will gain, and the specific ways students will benefit. Vague responses are one of the most common reasons strong candidates don’t score as well as they could.
- Describe your plan to share what you learn. Reviewers are looking for applicants who have a concrete, realistic plan to bring new knowledge and skills back to their school or team — through professional development, coaching, curriculum updates, or other means. The plan should go beyond simply completing the coursework.
- Be specific about your connection to students throughout. Describe the direct link between your educational pursuit and what you will do differently for students.
- Reporting is required. If awarded, you must submit a brief online outcome report, a thank-you letter, photos (if possible), and receipts for all purchases. Applicants who do not complete reporting will not be eligible for future Pasco Education Foundation funding.
Have questions? Reach out to Caitlin Sadler at csadler@pascoeducationfoundation.org — we're happy to help!
Key Dates
Innovative Classroom ProjectsProject L.E.A.D.
Professional Development
Employee Education Scholarships
Contact Us
Pasco Education Foundation, Inc.P.O. Box 1248,
Land O' Lakes, Florida 34639
Phone: (813) 794-2705
Email: funding@pascoeducationfoundation.org


