Funding Classrooms Without Personal Expenses: Using Grants

For special educators—particularly in underfunded schools—this burden can feel overwhelming. Adapted materials, supplemental supports, and inclusive resources are often necessary but not provided. One way to help offset these costs is through grants. In my own career, I have secured more than $14,000 in classroom and schoolwide grants, funding projects that ranged from engineering units to inclusive literacy initiatives. For classroom needs, I relied heavily on our local county foundation and received two grants from the Florida Farm Bureau. For schoolwide initiatives, I again turned to the local foundation along with support from Dollar General Youth Literacy and Lowe’s (although the program is no longer available). This article shares what I have learned—tips for writing strong proposals, understanding eligibility, and setting realistic goals—so that other teachers like you can equip your classrooms without reaching into your own wallet.