Classroom Grants

Snohomish Education Foundation Classroom Grant Program

Applications are open on October 1, 2026

Deadline for applications is November 30, 2026

Since 1986 the Snohomish Education Foundation (SEF) has provided teachers and staff members of the Snohomish School District funds in the form of grants for materials and experiences as a part of our mission to “elevate opportunities and possibilities for Snohomish School District students.”

We invite you to apply for a grant for the 2026-27 school year to support the students in your classroom(s).

Since 1986, the Snohomish Education Foundation (SEF) has provided grants to Snohomish School District teachers and staff to support materials and experiences that advance our mission to “elevate opportunities and possibilities” for students.

The Classroom Grant program funds a wide-range of programs, tools, equipment, and more. We have funded everything from author visits and field trips to new technology, art supplies and books. Here is a list of projects funded last year.

The SEF Grants Committee evaluates each proposal based on how well it supports student learning and enhances the established district curriculum. Funding decisions are also based on the total amount of funds available and the number and scope of requests received. There is no maximum grant request amount or funding limit per proposal. However, there is one individual grant request allowed per staff member.

What will NOT be funded?

  • Staff professional development

  • Substitute teacher pay

  • Subscriptions that do not directly involve students

  • More than one individual grant request

  • Snacks for classrooms

  • Curriculum or items that are in direct conflict with district curriculum

SEF will also offer its InnovateED Grant program in spring 2027, which is designed to support larger-scale projects, pilot programs, and ideas that are new to a school building or the district. You may still apply for funding through the Classroom Grant program; however, depending on the scope and nature of your request, InnovateED may be a better fit.

If you have questions, please contact office@snoed.org.

Snohomish Education Foundation Awards Over $103,000 in Classroom and Essential Needs Grants to Support Learning

Community support powers new funding for Snohomish School District educators

The Snohomish Education Foundation (SEF) is proud to announce the distribution of $103,737 in classroom and essential needs grants for the 2025-2026 school year—SEF’s largest award total to date. This funding directly supports innovative educational programs and hands-on learning experiences that inspire students across the Snohomish School District.

With over 140 applications for classroom grants totaling over $148,000 in requests, SEF funded 126 projects, 112 of which were fully funded, achieving an 87% full-funding rate. An additional $4,075 was awarded as Essential Needs grants which support programs across the district fulfilling needs of students and families in our community.

“What stands out this year is the number of grants that build connection across classrooms, grade levels, and programs,” said Sam Janke, SEF Grant Committee Chair. “From STEM and literacy initiatives to experiential learning, these projects strengthen both student learning and school communities.”

“Our educators consistently bring forward creative and meaningful ideas that inspire curiosity, belonging, and confidence in students,” said Erica Cenci, Executive Director of the Snohomish Education Foundation. “These grants reflect SEF’s commitment to partnering with teachers to take learning beyond the traditional classroom and ensure every student has access to opportunities.”

These grants are made possible through the generosity of the Snohomish community. The families, businesses, and donors who support SEF are the heart of these initiatives, ensuring Snohomish students have access to engaging and enriching education. SEF will continue tracking the impact of these grants, with committee members visiting classrooms this spring to see projects in action.

“The partnership between SEF and our schools is an incredible asset to our students and community,” said Dr. Kent Kultgen, Superintendent of Snohomish School District. “These classroom grants help our educators bring learning to life and create experiences that broaden opportunities for students across the district.”

This year’s grant cycle funds programs and projects that elevate opportunities for students — including hands-on STEM learning, literacy initiatives, classroom innovation, experiential learning, outdoor education, student wellness, and career and trades exploration.

SEF also is in its second year of awarding Innovative Grants. This year, SEF awarded three of those grants to:

  • Machias Elementary’s 6th Grade House Challenge

  • Central Emerson Elementary’s Sensory Garden

  • Snohomish High School’s Freddie the Frosting Machine

The community can continue to make its mark and support the SEF Classroom Grants program by attending this year’s SEF Annual Auction which will be held Saturday, November 7, at Tulalip Casino Resort.

Hear from Lori about the impact of the Classroom Grants.

Hear from Misha about the impact of the Classroom Grants.

“Thank you so much for the 2023 SHS Library Special Collections grant! I was able to purchase over 40 books for our World Language, All Ages Reads, and nonfiction collections. Students have enjoyed these books since they arrived in the Spring. It is so wonderful to have support from the community to keep our library collection fresh and fun for the students.”

-Snohomish High School Teacher Librarian
Heidi Pike