Southwest Capital Bank Financial Literacy Award

APS comprehensive and magnet Title 1 APS middle and high schools or collaborations with middle and high schools are eligible to apply. Eligible applicants are APS employees including teachers, educational assistants, librarians, counselors, social workers, and other school personnel. Applicants may apply as individuals or as part of a group.

All applicants must certify that the principal or immediate supervisor is aware of the proposal and supports the application. Grants will not be funded without the full support of school administration.

Only APS employees may submit applications. Only one application per school will be accepted. APS traditional and magnet schools are eligible to apply.

Proposals must meet the following criteria:

• Serve a Title 1 middle or high school.
• Focus on meeting the needs of and improving financial literacy outcomes for students and align with the district’s priorities.
• Have clearly defined goals and measurable outcomes to determine the success of the project.
• Build on student engagement, academic experiences and positive student outcomes in the area of financial literacy.
• Have a realistic budget and use the award to cover teacher stipends, purchased services, and/or supplies and materials within the proposed activity.
• Demonstrate an effort to raise funds through other sources in an effort to sustain the proposed project.

Selection Process and Criteria:

All grant applications are reviewed by a selection committee of APSEF Board members and community members.

Primary consideration will be given to proposals that:

• Have strong student impact
• Have a focus on financial literacy
• Encourage students to participate more fully in a classroom, project or program
• Foster positive student learning environment
• Improve school experiences for students and staff
• Mentor other APS schools to adopt the program

Southwest Capital Bank Financial Literacy awards are for one year. A funded grant is no guarantee of future funding. If awarded, schools/departments must be prepared to implement the project (staff availability, activities in place) upon receiving funding. Grant Amount

Schools may apply for up to $5,000. The Foundation reserves the right to adjust its granting levels.

Southwest Capital Bank Financial Literacy award winners are required to report on project outcomes at the end of the grant period. Final reports must be submitted to the APS Education Foundation. Award winners may be ineligible for future funding if this report is not received. Award winners should also be willing to host site visits, provide success stories and assist the Foundation with promotional activities.

No other considerations are needed for this grant.