In the steadily changing landscape of special education, where student needs and teaching challenges grow more complex every year, teachers often find themselves trying to do more with less. Budgets are tight. Resources are stretched. Creativity and passion can go a long way—but sometimes, what a teacher really needs is financial support to turn an idea into meaningful student impact.

That’s where the Special Education Foundation’s Classroom Innovation Grants come in. Since 2002, these grants have served as a bridge between great ideas and the resources necessary to bring them to life—especially for classrooms serving students with disabilities.

Educator Caroline Owings of the Jennings partner district shared, "This grant provided opportunity and funding for all new materials! Now, a variety of students receive individualized sensory input to help them stay regulated. The sensory room now has designated spaces for different types of sensory input: bins with sand, rice, beans, shaving cream; trampoline, two swings; a calming corner with a black-out tent and fidgets, to name a few!

Students have become more aware of their physical and emotional regulation by having access to an enriching space, coupled with a check/in and out routine. When students are regulated, learning can happen more easily!”

Purpose and Mission: 

The grants are meant to empower teachers to develop and implement creative enrichment projects that go above and beyond what budgets funded by regulated or tax dollars can support. They help cover ideas that otherwise might be shelved simply due to lack of funds.

The grants enable teachers to realize those ideas, enabling more dynamic, engaging, and differentiated learning experiences for students. SEF’s role is especially important in special education, where students’ needs often require more specialized materials or methods than generalized funding supports.

Why They Matter:

• Bridge the Gap – Teachers can implement projects otherwise out of reach.
• Celebrate Innovation – Creativity is encouraged and recognized.
• Spread Good Ideas – Projects can be replicated by others.
• Support Growth – Teachers gain professional development and support student goals.

Apply Today: 

Do you have a project idea that could make a difference in your classroom? Visit our website to learn more and apply online.