Kids Count Grants
Kids Count grants are larger-scaled grants for programs and initiatives that impact multiple schools or grades. They also help extend learning beyond the standard school day such as before/after school or during the summer.
Schools and programs are eligible to apply for grants of up to $15,000. Requests should serve identified student populations and provide academic and/or enrichment opportunities that improve student learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of projects have you funded in the past?
Review past projects here. We’ve funded everything from the Aloha High School Coffee Caboose to Base Afterschool Music Club to Montlair Elementary’s After School Reading Enrichment Program.
When are the Kids Count deadlines?
Letters of Inquiry for Kids Count awards must be submitted by these dates:
- For summer programming or for out-of-school time programming for the following school year, submit a Letter of Inquiry by the first Friday in February for an award decision by spring break.
- Letters of Inquiry will also be accepted by September 15 for Middle School Extended Day awards and for emerging needs.
How do I submit a request?
Submit Letters of Inquiry using the Letter of Inquiry (LOI) online form.
After reviewing LOIs, BEF will Invite applicants to submit a full proposal, using an online full application form. Generally, applicants will be given two weeks from receiving an invitation to submit a full application.
Is someone from BEF available to discuss my proposal with me?
Yes, we are happy to discuss your proposal idea and answer your questions by phone or email. We recommend that you contact us prior to writing your proposal to address any questions at: grants@beavertonedfoundation.org.
Are only teachers eligible to apply for BEF Kids Count Grants?
No, any Beaverton School District staff member may apply. However, you will need to discuss your project and get support from your principal to apply.
What are the criteria for summer programs?
Summer programs must serve the same students for a minimum of four weeks, and a minimum of 45 hours instruction time.
Can I use BEF funds for staff and volunteer training?
Projects and programs must be student-engaged. While BEF recognizes that staff training is valuable, BEF grants will fund only programs that involve students.
Can I use BEF Kids Count Grant funds to pay for staff compensation?
Yes. Budget may include compensation to pay teachers and staff consistent with district policy and contracts. BEF will compensate for student contact time only. Please contact the School District Human Resources Department, Payroll Department and/or Grant Accountant to assist you with determining classified and certified salary designations.
Can I use BEF funds to purchase technology equipment, books, etc. for the classroom?
BEF recognizes that books, equipment and/or technology can enhance student learning. BEF grants will only fund materials that are essential to the goals and objectives of the program proposed in the application.
Is it ok if I use funds from additional sources for my program?
Yes, additional funding sources strengthen your application.
What criteria will be used to determine if my proposal receives funding?
Programs should be in support of, or in addition to, existing curriculum. BEF uses the following criteria to score all applications:
- Rationale/Need
- Learning Objectives and Proposed Activities
- Anticipated Results
- Budget/Financial Plan
- Innovation
Who will be reading my application?
Grant reviewers include BEF staff, BEF Board of Directors, and community leaders who serve as BEF volunteers.
May I submit my application before the deadline date?
Yes, it is recommended that you submit your application prior to the deadline date.
May a school submit more than one application?
Yes, multiple applications from one school are accepted. However, please be aware that only one per school is likely to receive funding.
If I receive funding, what do I need to do when my project has been completed?
It is vital that you submit an Award Outcome Report within 45 days of completing the program. This helps BEF have information to ensure proper donor stewardship and future funding. If you do not submit an Award Outcome Report in a timely manner, it will likely affect the outcome of your future grant proposals.
Please note: BEF Kids Count Grant recipients are required to be available for at least one event to share their project and results with others at the request of BEF. BEF must receive reports within 45 days of the completion of the program.
Kids Count Grant Letter of Inquiry
During the 2024-2025 school year, BEF support launched an afterschool club that focused on creativity and music in a predominantly STEM option school.
BEF invested in career-connected learning at Merlo Campus, and Westview High School and as a result students have made tremendous progress in career aspirations. Over the course of the 2024-2025 school year, BEF provided exposure for 7th and 8th graders to manufacturing and construction careers.
BEF invested in hands-on, experiential learning at Aloha High School where students in the special education program were able to explore new opportunities through the Coffee Caboose, a coffee shop experience that helped students develop barista, marketing, and customoer service skills.
BEF invested in hands-on, experiential learning, and as a result students have made tremendous progress in their music and retention skills. Over the summer of 2024, BEF funded a district wide program known as Middle School Band Camp to provide valuable instruction to band students that will increase their musicality. This approach of finding ways to support students past school hours into the summer is key for BEF to help students get a jump start on their education.
BEF invested in core academics at Montclair Elementary School, and as a result students made tremendous progress in their reading and writing abilities. Over the course of three months from January to March 2025, BEF supported readers after school to improve proficiency. This approach of finding ways to support students after school or during the summer is a key role for BEF to help students get a good start to education.
BEF invested in hand on, experiential learning at Ridgewood Elementary School, and students have broadened their perspectives and built community. Over the course of the 2024-25 school year, BEF supported Ridgewood to design and paint a mural for the school while simultaneously connecting it with art activism and inclusivity.
BEF invested in core academics at Sunset High School through support for a before and after school program designed to help students work on homework and receive additional help.
BEF invested in core academics, and as a result students have made tremendous progress in their reading and writing abilities. In 2024, BEF partnered with six different elementary schools to support students in continuing their reading journey over the summer, aiding students in getting a jump start on their education before the next school year.