Today has been the culmination of some stressful activity, but also the beginning of something new. Please bear with me as I set the scene and add in the details.
On Wednesday, my principal sent an email to the staff asking whether anyone was interested in applying for a grant for $5,000 to $10,000. The funds would be used to travel and create an experience that will enhance our curriculum and what happens in our classrooms. My school is eligible for this particular grant, offered by Fund for Teachers, because we were once again named as a Wisconsin School of Promise (SOP). We have earned this this distinction for the last six years.
My principal had asked previously, but nobody responded with a "yes." Why would people stay silent? Who wouldn't love to plan a fantastic learning experience that easily could double as a once-in-a-lifetime vacation? Don't forget about the "free money." The catch is that a detailed educational plan, travel itinerary and budget needed to be submitted by 5pm on Friday. *gulp* On the flip side, the interpretation to qualify as an SOP has changed, so this is the last year we'll be eligible. Game on.
By the end of the day on Wednesday, I had convinced a new colleague of mine (the chemistry and physics teacher) to dive in and take on this challenge. We were fortunate to have the assistance of a former superintendent who volunteered her time to help us because she loves writing grants (yes, really) and she believes all teachers should travel.
By some act of a higher being, we were able to work together in bits of time during the day and after school and we submitted the finalized form at 4:55pm - with just 5 minutes to spare. Phew! As we all took deep breaths and exhaled, we slapped a few high-fives. Now...the waiting begins. We will be notified by a March 30th mailing.
You might be wondering, "What is her new adventure?" Well, what a more appropriate topic with which to start my blog, right? Welcome to the Gadget Girl's blog. Stay tuned to find out where I might get to go this summer!
