FAQs about the Student Leadership Grant
What is the purpose of a Student Leadership Grant?
The Student Leadership Grant program aims to inspire students to become better community members through leadership. The committee's desire is to nurture "positive contributors to the world" by providing grant opportunities. DSEF's true goal is to foster leadership development among students as they work alongside their peers, ultimately creating a better community.
What kinds of projects will the Foundation fund through this program?
The Foundation is open to a wide range of ideas, big or small. Projects can improve educational processes, student life, health and safety on and off-campus, school facilities, the environment, peer advising, help the DS community, or support people in need locally or globally.
What type of projects will the Foundation not fund?
The Foundation will not fund projects that are not led or inspired by students. We want students to practice their leadership skills throughout the entire process. Grant reviewers are focused on the process and less on the product (although that part is pretty cool too!)
DSEF cannot fund projects that only aim to buy equipment, furniture, or general school supplies.
Who will be reviewing the application for grants?
A committee of community leaders, including DSEF Board Members, District Personnel, Business Leaders, and invited Community Donors, will review all applications.
What happens if my request is not approved?
If your grant request is not approved, a member of the reviewing committee will contact you. It may be that the idea doesn't fit our support or needs some changes. Don't worry, you can try again during the next grant cycle. We recommend you ask for feedback to improve your project.
How much time does a sponsor need to spend on this?
The time a sponsor spends will depend on the project's uniqueness and the students' age group. Sponsors may be more involved with younger students and let older groups take on more active leadership roles. Please include how your sponsor will be involved in your application.
What if my completed project falls short of accomplishing my goals?
While we value the outcomes of the grants, we also emphasize the learning and growth process for students. We encourage students to try their best, even if everything doesn't go perfectly. What matters most is the opportunity to learn and show leadership.
I am helping with the application for an elementary student. Some of these questions seem geared toward middle or high school students.
The application is for everyone, and we understand some parts may be challenging. Feel free to seek help from teachers or faculty sponsors, but remember, it's essential for students to do most of the thinking for their projects.
Who handles the money for these grants?
If a project is approved, the Foundation will release the grant funding to the DSISD Business Office. From there the Business Office will disburse funds to each sponsor. The sponsor will manage the funds on behalf of the student leaders while adhering to the project's original plan.
When will the grant money be disbursed?
Grant money will be distributed once the winners are announced.
We want to thank the Foundation for our grant. What is the best way to recognize the contribution?
We appreciate your gratitude! You can share your project's progress and outcomes on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, tagging us @dsefnews. Send us pictures for our website and social media pages. Encourage friends and family to support the Foundation, and let businesses that support us know about your grant.
We value your success and want to publicly recognize your efforts!
