Q: Who writes the grant proposal?
A: Anyone can write the grant proposal! (interested parents, teachers, teaching artists, cultural organizations etc.) Grant proposals are most often written by the designated project leader for a proposed partnership, and are done in conjunction with the teaching artist, cultural organization professional and teachers involved. (Note: It is imperative that all partners have the opportunity to review and contribute to the content of the grant proposal before it is submitted!)

Q: How do I find a teaching artist?
A: The AAIEP is working to create a comprehensive artist directory as a part of this website! (If you know of an artist who is interested in working with schools, please send them to our Coordinator. Until then, you may consider looking for teaching artists through the BOCES listing at: www.artsineddirectory.org. Though we cannot recommend specific teaching artists, we can try to connect you with individuals who may have worked with certain teaching artists in your field of interest. Please contact the Coordinator for more information.

Q: How much can I request?
A: New for 2008-2009! Schools or organizations may apply for grants up to $2500 and applicants who have been previously funded by the AAIEP may apply for up to $4000. Please remember that these are matching grants, so if you apply for $2500 you will need a combination of $2500 in cash and in-kind resources to match it! (Please refer to the budget page or click here for more information regarding “cash” and “in-kind” resources.)

Q: Who evaluates my proposal?
A: Proposals are evaluated by a panel consisting of artists, arts administrators, educators and community leaders well-versed in the arts and education fields, who come together to evaluate the applications and recommend appropriate levels of funding. Panelists reside in all areas of the Adirondack region and are selected based on their experience and expertise in arts in education. They are expected to maintain strict levels of confidentiality and to avoid conflicts of interest or the appearance of conflicts of interest.

Q: What are the criteria for evaluating my proposal?
A: Evaluative Criteria:

1. Clarity and appropriateness of the shared educational and artistic goals and expected student outcomes in relation to proposed project activities and grade levels served.

2. Degree to which the project will strengthen learning of curricula in both the art and non-art subjects.

3. Depth and authenticity of the connection between the art and non-art subjects.

4. Degree to which the project will support the cited New York State Learning Standards in both the art and non-art subjects.

5. Degree to which the timeline will allow for reflection, further investigation, and fine tuning between work sessions.

6. Appropriateness of professional development activities in relation to project goals and expected student outcomes. (If applicable)

7. Degree to which certified art, music, dance, and/or theater teachers will participate in the project. (If applicable)

8. Clarity, appropriateness, and feasibility of evaluation and student assessment plans.

9. Quality of expertise and appropriateness of proposed artists or professionals.

10. Appropriateness of the members of the planning and implementation team.

11. Appropriateness and cost-effectiveness of the proposed budget.

Q: When must my project happen?
A : Projects must occur between January and June of each school year. A FINAL REPORT MUST BE SUBMITTED by June 15th of that year.

Q: What happens if my project doesn't get funded?
A : Please remember that this is a competitive process and the panel must make difficult decisions about great projects with limited funds. If your project is not funded during this round, we recommend that you ask for panel comments and reapply for grant funds in the future. Contact the Coordinator for further details and instructions.

Q: What happens if I DO get funded?
A : CONGRATULATIONS! Now you will need to implement the project to the best of your ability. Funds will be available in January and checks will be issued once the Project Compliance agreement is signed by all parties. Please contact the Coordinator if there are any major changes to ensure that the project still meets the criteria under which it was approved.