Parents are facing a new reality in 2020 with the sudden influx of homeschooling their children due to the pandemic. This can be a surprisingly costly endeavor, as parents have to pay for textbooks, learning materials, and computer software.
Fortunately, there are several grants available to help parents cover these costs. In this article, we will answer fifteen questions about grants for homeschooling as well as how to access them.
What Is a Grant?
A grant is a monetary award from some type of organization, typically a nonprofit or educational institution, that does not need to be paid back. Grants are most commonly used for research and charitable initiatives, but may also be used for necessary educational expenses like textbooks or computer software.
Are There Grants for Homeschooling?
Yes, there are grants specifically designated for homeschooling families. A great place to search for grants is Grants. gov, which allows you to search for grants by subject.
Alternatively, you can also search online for grants tailored towards homeschoolers, such as the Home School Foundation or the Draper Family Charitable Trust.
Where Can I Find a List of Grants Available for Homeschoolers?
You can find a list of grants available to homeschoolers by searching online. A few good places to start are the US Department of Education website, the Home School Legal Defense Association, the Home School Foundation, and Grants.
gov. You can narrow your search by state or keyword, depending on the website. You can also become a member of a local homeschooling organization or network, as many of these organizations can provide news about new grants.
Are There Specific Requirements for Applying for a Grant?
The requirements for applying for a grant can vary depending on the grantor, and the type of grant. Generally, grants for homeschoolers require that applicants be dedicated to homeschooling, provide a plan for using the grant funds, and demonstrate how their homeschool curriculum meets state educational guidelines. Additionally, most grants require that applicants have a low to moderate income, as many of these grants are designed to help low-income households.
Do I Need to Show Proof of Financial Need to Receive a Grant?
Yes, most grants for homeschoolers require some proof of financial need. This can typically include tax returns, pay stubs, and/or financial aid applications to demonstrate that you have demonstrated financial need.
How Do I Apply For a Grant?
The application process for grants varies depending on the grantor. Generally, most grantors require an application form as well as supporting documentation that prove you meet the grant’s requirements. This may include documents like a homeschool curriculum plan and financial documents.
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for a Grant?
The documents needed for a grant application can vary depending on the grantor. Generally, most grantors require an application form, a homeschool plan or curriculum map, financial documentation, letters of recommendation from the student’s previous teachers or counselors, and sometimes, samples of student work.
Are There Any Private Grants Available?
Yes, there are a number of private foundations and organizations that offer grants to homeschoolers. The Home School Foundation is one of the largest, and offers a wide variety of grants. Other private grants are offered by the Villa Montessori Institute, Beehive Foundation, and the Draper Family Charitable Trust.
How Can I Make My Grant Application Stand Out?
The best way to make your grant application stand out is to do your homework and research the organization awarding the grant. Make sure that the mission of the grantor aligns with your goals, and make sure to tailor your application to fit the specific requirements of the organization. It is also important to make sure that your application materials are professional, as this can make a major difference in the success of your application.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Grant Decision?
The length of time it takes to receive a grant decision can vary depending on the grantor. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to receive a decision.
Do Grant Applications Have to Be Submitted on Paper?
Most grant applications can be submitted electronically, or via email. However, some grantors require that applications be printed out and submitted by mail. It is important to check with the particular grantor to find out what their requirements are.
Can I Renew a Grant for Multiple Years?
Some grants are designed to be renewable for multiple years, while others are offered for a set amount of time. It is important to check with the individual grantor to find out if a grant is renewable or not.
Are There Grants Available to Help Pay for Tuition?
Yes, some grants are available to help pay for tuition. The Home School Foundation and the Beehive Foundation both offer grants specifically to help homeschoolers pay for tuition.
Additionally, some states offer grants specifically for homeschoolers that can be used to pay tuition at a private or online school.
Are There Grants Available For Homeschoolers With Special Needs?
Yes, there are grants specifically available to homeschoolers with special needs. The Home School Foundation and the Beehive Foundation both have grants that can be used to pay for additional support for homeschoolers with special needs. There may also be grants available from your state or local government to help cover the costs of special needs support.
Where Can I Find More Information About Grants for Homeschoolers?
There are a number of websites and organizations dedicated to helping parents find grants for homeschoolers. In addition to the websites mentioned earlier in this article, there are other resources like the National Home Education Network, which offers information about grants and other resources for homeschoolers, and the National Parenting Association, which is a great source of information on homeschool grants and other parenting resources.
Conclusion
Grants can be a great way to help offset the cost of homeschooling your child. With a bit of research, and attention to detail, you can find a grant that fits your needs. Get to know the grantor and tailor your application to meet their unique requirements, and you’re sure to be successful in your endeavor!