from the files of Barbara Jean Hicks
Authors who do school visits hear it over and over again: “I’m sorry, we just can’t afford you.” “We’re on a limited budget.” “Maybe next year…”
But we all know that “next year” there will be even less money for “extras” like school visits. In the education world, budget constraints are a reality. But visiting authors deserve to be paid as professionals, and programs that help students reach state educational standards are hardly “extras.”
Many schools (and authors!) don’t realize how much help is available to fund educational presentations that focus on literacy and the arts and support school curriculum.
Many organizations offer grants or sponsorships that can more than cover an author’s expenses and speaking fee. Focus on Funding is a resource I’ve put together to send as a print handout or an email attachment to schools and/or parent/teacher organizations that express an interest in a school visit but are hesitant about the cost. Here are just two of the many funding opportunities from this free download:
DONORS CHOOSE
DonorsChoose aims to provide teachers and students in need with resources that public schools often lack. Here, teachers submit ideas for materials or experiences that their students need to learn. Individuals choose a project and make it a classroom reality through their generous funding.
Deadline: Ongoing/Unspecified
Details: At website.
TARGET
I’ve presented a number of family literacy nights funded by Target, which provides local grant money to hometown organizations and schools and focuses on programs that promote a love of reading or encourage children to read together with their families. This is one of the easiest grants for schools to apply for.
Deadline: Grant applications are generally accepted between March 1 and May 31.
Details: At website.
TO THINK ABOUT:
1) Have you been told by teachers or principals in the past that they can’t afford you? If you still have their contact information (it’s a good idea to keep track of all queries), consider sending a note to tell them how much you’d still like to visit their school. Include the Focus on Funding handout; suggest the Target grant.
2) Are there schools in your area you haven’t made contact with? Be proactive! Find out the name of the principal and/or the PTA/PTO president (you can usually find this information on the school website) and send a letter or an email—or even better, make an appointment for a short visit. Be ready to describe your author presentation. Leave them with your information and the Focus on Funding handout.
NEXT FRIDAY: TIPS FOR WRITING WINNING GRANT PROPOSALS
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