Frequently Asked Questions for AEF Grant Applications

•How can I get help with my application?

  • Contact AISD Grants/Fund Development Department (Brenda Lohse) 30 days prior to due date for suggestions/assistance on the application. (Contact information below.)

•Do I need to have my principal's permission to apply?

  • Yes, the application asks for your principal's signature, acknowledging approval of the project on campus.

•What are SMART Objectives? How do I write one?

  • SMART stands for: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time Bound. Make your objectives as clear as possible; there can be multiple objectives to help your project achieve success.

    • SMART Example: In Spring 2021, at least 30% of fourth grade students will show mastery on their STAAR Writing assessment.

    • Non-SMART Example: This project will help improve 4th grade STAAR scores.

•What can an AEF Grant fund?

  • A grant from AEF can fund equipment, supplies, books, and other educational materials needed to execute your project. Fees for training conferences are subject to district approval.

•What can an AEF Grant NOT fund?

  • Funds from an AEF grant cannot go toward furniture, teacher/staff stipends, or travel costs. Everything goes through an approval process with the district, so this list may change. No class sets of Chromebooks or iPads.

•Can I apply if I’ve won in the past?

  • Yes! We encourage it!

•Can I apply again with the same project/idea?

  • Yes, just please note it in your application.

•Am I required to use AISD vendors?

  • Yes, all grant recipients must follow AISD purchasing guidelines.

•I’ve submitted my application! What happens next?

  • After the submission deadline, all applications and budgets will be reviewed by the AISD Grants/Fund Development Department to ensure alignment with district strategic plans. Then, the AEF Board of Directors will read and score each application using the scoring rubric provided on the application. After the Board finalizes the winning grants, they will travel to each winner’s campus with a BIG CHECK to surprise the winning teachers, staff and their students. This is what we call Prize Patrol, and it usually takes place near the beginning of the spring semester. The winners will also receive an invitation to the Dream Makers Banquet that is held to honor the winners.

•When will I implement my project?

  • Project funds, if awarded, will be for projects during the summer of 2023 or school year 2023-24.

•AISD Grants/Fund Development Department contact information:

  • BRENDA LOHSE, Coordinator, (682) 867-7331, blohse@aisd.net