GIPS Foundation Invites Teachers to Swim with the Sharks in the New Innovation Tank!

As Grand Island Public Schools kicks off another exciting year, the GIPS Foundation is reminding teachers about our brand-new grant experience: The Innovation Tank! Announced this past May, this upgraded program replaces our traditional Classroom Grants to give you bigger resources, higher impact, and a fresh way to fund your vision.

For years, GIPS educators have amazed us with their passion and ingenuity. To date, the GIPS Foundation has proudly funded 361 grants totaling $335,116, enriching the learning journeys of 76,173 students across every school in the district.

Kari Hooker-Leep, Executive Director of the GIPS Foundation, is eager to see how teachers use this expanded funding:

“Our teachers are constantly discovering creative ways to inspire students, and the Innovation Tank is designed to match that level of energy and vision. By raising our funding cap to $5,000, we’re giving our educators the backing they need to dream big, innovate boldly, and transform classroom learning across the district.”

 

What’s New for This School Year?

We loved what you accomplished with Classroom Grants—so we leveled up the investment to match your biggest dreams:

• Doubled Funding Power: We’ve increased our maximum grant potential! Instead of $2,500, we are now offering grant awards up to $5,000 to bring your most ambitious, game-changing projects to life.
   
• Newton is Geared Up: Keep an eye out for our mascot, Newton! He’s officially suited up in safety glasses and an apron, holding a zapping lightbulb, and ready to help you spark innovation.
   
• The Live Pitch Experience: Selected finalists will receive Pitch Prep coaching before presenting their ideas to a live panel of community "Sharks" who have the power to award funding on the spot this October!

 

Deadlines & How to Apply

Whether you spent the summer refining your idea or inspiration hit you while setting up your classroom this week, we want to read your proposal!

• Eligibility: Exclusive to GIPS staff. Only applications submitted with a valid gips.org email address will be considered.
   
• Strategic Alignment: Be sure to review the GIPS Strategic Plan and explain in your proposal how your project aligns with these district goals.
   
• Department Pre-Approvals: If your project involves technology, equipment, or physical changes to a building, you must reach out to the IT or Buildings & Grounds departments prior to applying to confirm your project meets district guidelines.
   
• Final Deadline: The application window closes promptly on September 28 at 4:00 PM.

Powered by Community Support

This exciting program is made possible thanks to the generous support of the GIPS Foundation’s Harvest event, Community Campaign, GIPS Staff Giving Campaign, and the Janeth Davis Memorial Fund. We extend our deepest gratitude to our donors and community whose contributions fuel these enrichments for our students.

Ready to dive in? Visit our [Innovation Tank Webpage] to review the Grant Guide and submit your application before September 28!