Description of Program

A limited number of matching grants of up to $1,000 are awarded each year to local PTAs for student-centered programs focused on arts education. Special consideration is given to programs that reach large numbers of students, especially students who are at risk. At risk is the term applied to children whose environmental, familial, and/or socioeconomic situation may affect their academic success or ability to learn.

The grant program complements PTA's long-standing commitment to quality arts education in public schools by providing funds to local PTAs to establish or enhance school arts programs in one or more arts areas: visual arts, photography, music (including dance), and literature (including theater). Local PTAs must submit complete applications and provide funds that match the amount they are requesting from the national PTA organization.

Program Objective

To enhance arts education for students in the classroom or other learning environments through activities; materials; introduction of new technologies, techniques, or methods; visiting artists; or programs.

Requirements

• A completed application form
• Responses to the Selection Criteria listed on the application form
• A letter of commitment with the local PTA president's original signature stating the amount and source of matching funds from the local PTA

Restrictions

Grant money will be given to a local PTA for the management and implementation of a program such as a visiting artist program.

Grant money and matching funds may not be used for any overhead costs. Overhead costs refer to the cost of doing business (rental of space, teacher salaries, utilities, etc.). Funds may not be used for capital improvements, construction, or the purchase of permanent equipment. Funds may support the purchase of software.

Selection of Award Recipients

A panel of judges selected by and including one or more members of the PTA national board of directors will determine the grant recipients.

Completed applications must be received by the national PTA office on or before May 1, 2008, for consideration. Grant recipients will be notified in early June, and grants will be distributed beginning in October 2008. All applicants will be notified of the status of their applications by the end of July 2008.

Mail all application materials to:

PTA Office of Programs and Public Policy
Mary Lou Anderson Reflections Arts Enhancement Grant Program
1400 L Street NW, Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005

No faxed applications will be accepted.

Grant Application Instructions [pdf]
Application Form [pdf]
Application Checklist [pdf]