Skip to main content

Innovative Learning Grants

2026-2027 grant applications are due October 13, 2026. 

Image Gallery

Our Programs & Initiatives

Innovative Learning Grants Application

Get Funding for Your Innovative Ideas!

Applications for REFI's Innovative Learning Grants are now open!

Innovative Learning Grants (ILG) ask educators to provide a learning experience that motivates and actively engages students and helps them achieve academic excellence that aligns with standards that can be replicated at other schools. 

The ILG supports innovative and creative approaches to education in support of the learning goals for Rockingham County Public School by helping all learners to become Critical Thinkers, Communicators, Collaborators, Creators and Good Citizens (5 C’s). 

ILG applications will be evaluated on several criteria, including the extent to which the project enriches the educational experience, challenges students, shows creativity and innovation, has realistic objectives, and reaches a significant number of students. 

Some ILG grant applications may also be considered for named Honor and Memorial Grants.

ILG Award amounts will vary based on the type of submission:

  • Collaboration - Up to $5,000
    My project involves two or more schools.
     
  • School-wide - Up to $3,000
    My project is designed to involve and benefit students across my whole school.
     
  • Large Individual - Up to $2,500
    My project will primarily benefit 50 or more students.
     
  • Small Individual - $300–$1,500
    My project will primarily benefit fewer than 50 students.
Innovative Learning Grant Timeline:
September 1: Grant Applications Open
October 13: Grant Applications Due
Early November: Grant Awards Announced

FAQ's

  • Who is eligible to apply for funding?

    All RCPS employees are eligible to apply.

  • How do I apply?

    All applications must be submitted through our digital application and are due October 13, 2026. No paper applications are accepted.

  • When are applications due?

    Applications are due October 13, 2026 by 11:59pm. Digital signatures from principals/supervisors on completed applications are due by October 22.

  • Can I apply for field trips?

    Yes, curriculum-based field trip proposals are welcomed.

  • What types of items will REFI not fund?

    Food in classrooms for parties, rewards, or students in need
    T-shirts
    Technology devices already provided by RCPS
    Salaries or compensation for staff

  • What should I include in my budget?

    Applications should provide a detailed budget outlining how the requested funds would be spent, itemizing costs when possible. Providing links or examples of items, software, materials can be helpful, but is not required. Feel free to include brief explanation if necessary to help reviewer understand the necessity of any budget line items. You may also include items needed for the project, but you plan to acquire by other means (ex. parent donations, already available supplies, REFI's teacher supply depot, etc.)

    Budget items may include, but are not limited to: instructional materials/supplies, software, admission fees, transportation costs, recognition, guest speakers/presentation fees; teacher/staff development, etc.

    Projects proposing matching funds from other sources (ex. corporate sponsorship, in-kind donations, school funding match, etc) should disclose that information on the budget sheet.

  • Does my principal have to approve my request?

    The principal/supervisor are required to sign the proposal. All applications originating from a school must have the principal's signature. If you are collaborating with another school(s), all principals must sign the application. Leadership Digital Signatures have an extended deadline and must be completed by October 22nd.

  • What is REFI's review process?

    REFI’s Innovative Learning Grants Review Committee is comprised of members of REFI's Board of Directors. The group independently reads applications and then meets to discuss and recommend applications. Once selections are made, grant applicants are notified by email.

  • When will I know if I am receiving a grant?

    Award notification will be sent via RCPS email in early November.

  • How do I receive my funding?

    Grant winners will need to submit a form for reimbursement through their school's bookkeeper. Individuals cannot receive reimbursement. Reimbursement requests will only be paid for the amount approved by the ILG review committee; any expenses beyond the grant amount are the responsibility of the school.

Ready to apply? Click below!

Make a Positive impact in student lives & SupportED.

Thank you in advance for your generous support that allows us to make a difference in the lives of thousands of people and their families each year. When you support REFI, you SupportED in Rockingham County, VA.

MENU CLOSE