At the Special Education Foundation (SEF), we believe that teachers deserve support — not to have to pay out of pocket — when they dream up creative, meaningful ways to engage and inspire their students. For special education teachers, the challenge is especially steep: restricted tax-dollar budgets often leave little or no room for enrichment beyond the basics.
That’s why our Classroom Innovation Grants exist — to bridge that gap and give teachers the opportunity to bring bigger, more imaginative ideas to life. Since 2002, SEF has invested in classroom projects that go beyond what traditional funding covers, supporting teachers who want to create more engaging, inclusive, and empowering learning environments.
We showcase a few creative examples of grant recipients and the innovative projects they’re bringing to life for their students:
Katie Woepke of Bridges used her Classroom Innovation Grant to bring movement activities into the classroom to help students focus while they are learning.
Megan Mathis & Lindsey Meinhardt of LaSalle Springs Middle School bring their students into the community each week to practice life skills such as communication, social skills, and purchasing.
2026-2027 Applications Now Open
If you’ve had a bright idea for a classroom project but lacked the budget to make it happen, we encourage you to apply. Your vision could turn into a real, enriching experience for your students — with little or no cost to you personally. SEF is accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year through February 28, 2026.
To maximize your chances, be sure to follow the guidance in SEF’s Helpful Hints for Applying carefully.
Support classroom educators’ creative, innovative projects for students with disabilities by making a meaningful year-end gift today.
