Programs

Mini-Grants for Instruction
The DEF mini-grant program funds innovative instructional ideas and programs. The grants range from $200 to $1500 and are available to individual teachers, teaching teams, media specialists, counselors and administrators in the City Schools of Decatur.

Click here to download a mini-grant application.

Teacher EdVentures
Teacher EdVentures are designed to promote professional growth for teachers and administrators in the City Schools of Decatur. Through this program, the Foundation provides funds to cover the cost of a substitute teacher so that classroom teachers can take a professional field trip. Teacher EdVenture participants can go across the hall, across town, or even to another school district to observe stellar educators in action. There are a limited number of scholarships offered each year. No application deadline.

Student EdVentures
Student EdVentures is a program designed to help Decatur students participate in educational opportunities outside of the regular school day or school year. The funds can be used for travel expenses and/or costs associated with enrichment programs. Any City Schools of Decatur student in grades 6-12 is eligible to receive funds, but preference will be given to students who demonstrate need.  There is no application deadline.

School Improvement Grants
Grants given to support the School Improvement Plan developed by School Improvement Teams at each school. These grants support the work being done to move the school system forward based on the five strategic goals outlined by the district in the strategic plan.

DEF manages the funds listed below.

The Book Club
The Book Club, an initiative begun by the Decatur Business Association, supplies funds that help students in kindergarten through fifth grade to build their own personal libraries. Applications for funds are made by school principals.

Mary Leila Honiker Student Assistance Fund
This fund, named for beloved CSD social worker Mary Leila Honiker, provides emergency assistance to students and families in need.

Decatur Youth Fund
The Decatur Youth Fund represents a partnership between the City of Decatur and the Decatur Education Foundation. For more than ten years, the Decatur Youth Fund has provided scholarships to help children and youth participate in after-school programs, summer school, summer camps, and other enrichment opportunities.