2025-2026 HEF Classroom Project Program
APPLICATION FORM
Applications are Open
1Overview2Contact & Project Info3Project Description & Budget
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Overview
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Contact & Project Info
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Project Description & Budget

  • PLEASE READ THE OVERVIEW AND GUIDELINES BEFORE STARTING THE APPLICATION.

    Hayward Education Foundation will begin accepting applications for its 2025–2026 Classroom Projects Program (CPP) on November 1, 2025. Below you will find information on preparing and submitting your classroom project proposal, the funding timetable, and the link to the online application.

    Project guidelines and selection criteria are listed below.

    Grants of up to $1,000 are available to individual teachers for creative classroom projects and activities that support, enrich, and strengthen the educational experiences of students while promoting life-long learning. All K–12 teachers employed at schools in Hayward (Public, Private, or Charter) are eligible and encouraged to submit a classroom project for funding. The materials purchased with grant funds belong to the teacher, as long as the teacher remains in Hayward schools.

    After you begin the application, you will have up to 10 days to complete it if you save your progress. Be sure to copy and retain your unique save link to return to your application.

    The application and instructions are available online only. If you experience technical difficulties accessing the site, or have questions about the guidelines or funding process, contact:
    Daniel Goldstein, Treasurer
    Finance@HaywardEd.org
    (510) 305-9949 (text or call)

    GUIDELINES & FUNDING CALENDAR

    Overview:
    Hayward Education Foundation (HEF) awards grants for creative classroom projects and activities that support, enrich, and strengthen the educational experiences of students and promote life-long learning.

    Grants are awarded once each year, up to a maximum of $1,000. Due to limited funding, a project may be fully or partially funded. Each applicant may submit only one application per academic year.

    All recipients of HEF Classroom Project grants must return any unspent funds and submit a completed final report, including photos, at the conclusion of the project.
    The Final Report Format is included on the last page of this application. You will be asked to initial your acknowledgment of these requirements on the budget page.
    Failure to comply may affect eligibility for future funding.

    To view projects funded in previous years, visit the Projects menu on our website: www.HaywardEd.org.


    2025–2026 APPLICATION PROCESS

    Each application must include a completed budget form. Applications without a budget form will not be considered.

    You may download the Itemized Budget template in Excel format, use Google Sheets, or include a printout of your online cart, district PO, or a reasonable alternative.

    Your budget must include: item description, vendor (URL preferred), unit cost, shipping/handling, sales tax, line item totals, and a grand total.

    Applications that do not comply with the instructions or form requirements will not be considered.

    Applications are reviewed by HEF Board members and funded on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications are typically accepted through March. The Board may, at its discretion, allocate additional funds.

    All applicants will be notified of results by email within one week of submission.


    GUIDELINES AND CLASSROOM PROJECT SELECTION CRITERIA

    HEF seeks Classroom Project proposals that:
    • Are creative, innovative, and enhance the educational experience of Hayward students.
    • Promote life-long learning.
    • Include clear goals, activities, and measurable outcomes
    • Engage students in active, hands-on participation within the classroom or on school grounds.
    • Include a detailed, itemized budget with specific line items.
    • Support durable materials or resources with lasting educational value.


    HEF will NOT fund:
    • Clothing (e.g., t-shirts, sweatshirts)
    • Computer ink or toner
    • Field trips (transportation, admission, registration, or chaperone costs)
    • Fingerprinting
    • Food, snacks, or beverages
    • Handwritten, incomplete, or late applications
    • Items typically provided by the school or district
    • Personal electronic devices for teacher use (tablets, iPads, laptops, desktops)
    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Projects lacking clear educational benefit
    • Retroactive expenses
    • Salaries or stipends
    • Student fees or payments
    • Trophies, pins, or certificates


    Questions and More Information
    If you have any questions, email Finance@HaywardEd.org or text/call (510) 305-9949.


    FUNDING CALENDAR
    Application and Guidelines Available: November 1, 2025
    Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
    Notification to Applicants: Within one week of submission
    Distribution of Awards: Upon approval


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