With funding for any “extra” programs outside traditional academia disappearing, it can be hard to incorporate things like after school play into a students’ day. If your school could use help improving its elementary, high school, or middle school physical education program, then have the administration look into special funding programs like the Carol White PEP Grant.
Each year, the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) awards millions of dollars to schools and community-based organizations to initiate, expand, and improve physical education programs. Your school or organization could receive $100,000 to $750,000 of funding towards getting the children involved in a healthy lifestyle. You can find information on what the guidelines are at Ed.gov, and here are some hints for receiving the next grant:
Helpful Tips For Getting the 2011 Carol White Pep Grant
Review: Rumor has it that very little will change for 2011’s competition. There may be some changes to the guidelines for the new year, but it’s a safe bet that many of the guidelines will be similar if not the same. Preparing to meet all aspects of last year’s guidelines should give you a good idea of what you should be doing while you wait for the 2011 PEP Grant competition to be announced.
Knowledge is Power: Know and understand what you are required to measure. The federal government requires detailed and accurate reporting by winning applicants. Be sure to address each of the required measures in your objectives as well as your evaluations.
Go the extra mile! There are certain “bonus points” you can gain by doing things like including a well-outlined plan for collecting BMI data. Your superintendent will need to be on board and signatures will be required. However, this could be the difference between a winning grant and an application that almost wins. Likewise, gather your programming partners, like other health organizations, your food service staff, or local youth organizations. A written and signed collaborative agreement can also score you much needed bonus points.
Know What You Need: Surprisingly, this can be a critical point in wiling PEP Grants. You need to know your needs AND be able to prove them through documentation and assessment information. In your application, clearly outline where your program can improve and how PEP funding will make those improvements. Prove that you’ve done your homework by utilizing available assessment tools, like the School Health Index, PECAT, and HECAT. Always address local, state, and national standards.
