Here are a few basic ideas that will help you as you prepare your proposal:
1. Match your proposal to the intent of the grant you are seeking.
DO make certain your idea falls under the broad umbrella of the grant. Build on the NCTM Principles and Standards. State your goals (usually one or two) and objectives clearly. Remember a goal is a broad statement about what you hope to accomplish. It usually is not measurable. An objective is a specific statement about what you will do and is measurable.
DON’T be unrealistic and aim for “pie in the sky.”
DO be specific about what you will do and when you will do it. A timeline shows good planning and helps bring life to the proposal. Write clearly and succinctly. Demonstrate the alignment of your planned activities to your goals, objectives, and grant requirements.
DON’T expect proposal readers to figure out what you are going to do; they want you to tell them your plan. Don’t use excess verbiage or language that is unnecessary.
3. Observe technical guidelines.
DO read the directions on the RFP (request for proposal) carefully and make certain you include everything mentioned. Not following directions is one of the major reasons many proposals are not funded. Have a sound budget. Get estimates about the costs to be incurred and the length of time needed to complete the project.
DON’T exceed the page limit, font size, or budget limits. Don’t exaggerate or be unrealistic about the budget or resources needed for the project.
4. Emphasize the benefits to students.
DO show a need for the project and have a creative solution to the problem. Focus on the expected impact on student learning.
DON’T philosophize in the proposal.
5. Describe possible long-term implications.
DO have an evaluation plan that measures the objectives you have laid out. Describe how assessment information will be collected, used, and reported.
DON’T promise more than you can deliver.
6. Enlist the support of your principal, supervisor, and colleagues.
DO make certain persons that you ask to write your letters indicate their strong support and commitment to your project. Provide them with a copy of your proposal so that they will understand the details and requirements of your project.
DON’T forget to have someone not connected to your project read it and the RFP to see if it makes sense and all guidelines are met. A new pair of eyes can be very helpful.
