Secondary Teacher
Grant Program
The Teacher Grant Program encourages creative programming and introducing innovative educational techniques in Carlsbad’s middle and high schools.
In the 2024-25 school year, we awarded more than $50,000 in teacher grants to enhance learning through innovation, STEAM, and music programs. A total of $51,273 was granted to 11 secondary-level teachers across the Carlsbad Unified School District, supporting unique, hands-on projects that will enrich the educational experience for students.
Grants Awarded in 2024-25
Grant 1
Student Journalists Get New Laptops
This grant helped the Sage Creek journalism program purchase new laptops, ensuring students have access to applications that help them produce stories.
Grant 2
8th Graders Explore STEM Careers
Calavera Hills 8th graders attended a STEM workshop to connect their classroom learning to real-world applications in various defense industry sectors.
Grant 3
Outside 'Nature Nook' Enhances Engagment
This grant funded a native garden and outdoor learning space for middle school students to learn about environmental science and sustainability practices.
Grant 4
PE Measuring Heart Rates in Class
9th-grade PE class received heart rate monitors to give students real-time feedback on their fitness levels, helping them track progress and stay motivated.
Grant 5
White Boards Boost Engagement in Math
By installing multiple whiteboards, the Math Department at Sage Creek aims to transform instruction through visible learning strategies.
Grant 6
Building Thinking Classrooms in English
Using vertical whiteboards and group assignments, students will engage in dynamic, problem-solving activities in non-traditional instruction.
Grant 7
Students Engineer Real-World Solutions
This grant funds Project Lead the Way engineering curriculum for students in their capstone class, that ends in a TED Talk-style community presentation.
Grant 8
Aquariums Teach STEM Concepts to Students
Students set up and maintain saltwater aquariums, enhancing an understanding of biology and chemistry through hands-on marine science projects.
Grant 9
Calculators Enhance Math Learning
In response to the district’s no-phone policy, this grant provides calculators to 8th graders, supporting math education without cell phone distractions.
Grant 10
Dual Screens Create Collaborative Class
This grant funded a second TV monitor, transforming a math classroom into a collaborative, decentralized learning space, enhancing student engagement.
Grant 11
Showcasing Genius Project Innovations
Funding for the Genius Project Symposium highlights student-led innovation and personal growth, culminating in TED-style presentations to the Sage Creek community.
What Teachers Are Saying
“I’m a thrilled that this project got passed and can not wait to create new items to get our students moving! Thank you so much.”
“This is INCREDIBLE news! Thank you all so much and thank you to the Carlsbad Educational Foundation. I can’t wait to share the news with the students and get to work!”
How to Apply
Are you a middle or high school teacher in the Carlsbad Unified School District? Do you have an idea to better engage students in music, STEAM, or new educational experiences? We’d love to hear about it!
The Teacher Grant Program is applicable to Carlsbad Unified School District secondary teachers and staff supporting music, STEAM, or driving educational innovation. Teacher grants are awarded for requests of $1,000+. The number of proposals awarded will depend on the funds available from the Foundation. Additional items to keep in mind:
- Projects that impact a large number of students are given preference.
- Teacher collaboration is encouraged.
- If you have previously received a grant from the Foundation, you must ensure that the previous project has been implemented and an evaluation report has been submitted before applying for another grant.
The grant application window will open in the Spring 2025 for the 2025-26 school year. Award recipients will be notified in the Spring 2025.