About YEF

What is YEF?

The Yarmouth Education Foundation (YEF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2010. It’s mission is to enrich the educational experience of students in the Yarmouth School Department. Since its founding, YEF has awarded over $500,000 in grants. 

YEF aims to promote and enhance educational excellence by providing independent funding to educators for innovative educational projects and initiatives that:

(1) Fall outside the standard budget

(2) Align with and support the curriculum

What does 'innovative' mean to YEF?

YEF defines innovation broadly. It could include the use of new technology, imaginative programming or creative teaching methods.  It might also include introducing an idea that’s new to Yarmouth – even if it’s been tried elsewhere. Innovation doesn’t need to be complex or tech-based, it simply needs to offer a fresh approach to engaging and educating students.

TYPES OF GRANTS

What types of grants does YEF fund?

YEF offers three types of grants:

• EXPEDITED GRANTS (up to $500)

• STANDARD GRANTS (over $500)

• PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS (for educators)

What’s the difference between Expedited and Standard Grants?

EXPEDITED GRANTS support smaller or pilot projects and are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year. No presentation is required for expedited grants, but Principal approval is needed. (Up to $500)

STANDARD GRANTS fund larger projects and require a committee presentation. (Over $500)

APPLYING FOR A GRANT

How do I apply for an Expedited Grant?

Expedited Grant applications are available on the Yarmouth Staff Intranet  

1. Download the Google Doc application form

2. Collaborate as needed

3. When your application is complete, “share” it with your principal for approval. 

4. If approved, your principal will notify you directly. 

5. You will then email the approved application to the YEF administrator at yefsecretary@gmail.com 

6. The YEF Board will review your request, and successful applicants will be notified shortly after. 

How do I apply for a Standard Grant?

Grant applications are available on the Yarmouth Staff Intranet  

1. Download the Google Doc application form

2. Collaborate as needed

3. When your application is complete, “share” the document with your with your principal 

4. Once approved, your principal will upload it for YEF’s review

How do I apply for a Professional Development Grant?

1. Prepare proposal and work with your school leadership as needed to align your proposal with school and district priorities.

2.  If approved by school leadership, district office manages the granting and implementation of funds.

Note: YEF funds Professional Development Grants through the district office, which manages distribution. Professional Development Grants are not accepted directly from individual teachers. 

What happens after I submit my application?

Once your Principal approves your application, it is forwarded to the Superintendent for review. The Superintendent then sends the selected applications to YEF. Finalists will be invited to present their proposals to the YEF Grants Committee. Approved applications are then reviewed by the YEF Board. Applicants will be notified of the final decision shortly after. 

ELIGIBILITY

Who can apply for a grant?

The following individual(s) and group(s) in the Yarmouth School Department are eligible to apply for YEF grants:

• Current teachers and administrators

• Teacher-student teams

• Student organizations

NOTE: Yarmouth High School Students should use the application form available on the YHS Student Intranet

I live in Yarmouth but teach elsewhere. Can I apply?

No. YEF grants are only available to current educators and students in the Yarmouth School Department.

FUNDING GUIDELINES

What can grants cover?

YEF grants may be used to fund a variety of educational enhancements that fall within the guidelines, like:

• Equipment and supplies

• Guest speakers or facilitators

• Admission fees

• Licensing fees for software, art, or music

What can’t grants cover?

Grants cannot be used for:

• Core programs already funded by the school budget

• Budget shortfalls

• Salaries or stipends

• Travel, lodging, or meals

• Building maintenance

• Certification or degree programs

STRONG APPLICATIONS

What are things the Grants Committee looks for in Expedited or Standard Grant applications?

Strong grant proposals typically:

• Present a well-developed project with a clear, innovative objective (see YEF’s definition of “innovative”)

• Enrich the overall educational experience for Yarmouth public school students

• Demonstrate teaching innovation and excellence

• Reflect a passion or interest that enhances the student experience

• Include a realistic, specific budget that aligns with the project scope

• Consider scalability—whether the project can still succeed with partial funding

• Show potential for broad student reach or meaningful impact on a smaller group

• Promote collaboration among educators, students, or both

Additional details that help strengthen your application:

• Is this program modeled on something that exists locally, nationally, or globally? If so, how is it adapted to benefit Yarmouth students?

• Could the project be expanded or replicated in other classrooms or grade levels?

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Can I apply for a Professional Development Grant?
Yes. YEF supports professional development opportunities that promote innovation, excellence in teaching, and broad student impact. Proposals should clearly demonstrate how the experience will benefit students across multiple grade levels and encourage collaboration and the sharing of best practices.

What makes a strong application?
When applying, consider including:

• A clear connection to professional growth (tied to curriculum or teaching practice)

• Opportunities for renewal—experiences that re-energize your teaching or inspire new perspectives

• Learning that responds to emerging needs or introduces new concepts

• The potential to benefit a significant number of students or inform broader teaching practice

Applications should also address:

• How the training will support collaboration and sharing of best practices among educators

• How the experience will directly improve your teaching and benefit your students

Can I apply again if I received a grant last cycle?
EXPEDITED or STANDARD GRANTS: Yes, you may apply again immediately.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS: Please wait one full year before reapplying. YEF does not fund professional development in consecutive years for the same applicant.

OTHER QUESTIONS

Can I combine a YEF grant with other funding sources?

Yes. Collaboration and additional funding are encouraged.

Need help with your application?

We’re here to help! YEF board members are available during the August In-Service Luncheon to answer questions and offer guidance. You can also email us at yefsecretary@gmail.com for assistance.