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Community Grants Program announces 2016 Request for Proposals
The College Spark Washington Community Grants Program is an annual, competitive statewide program focused on building the effectiveness of grantees that have demonstrated experience serving low-income students and generating knowledge related to college readiness in middle school and successful transition to college.
The Community Grants Program Request for Proposals (RFP) is now available. All projects that receive Community Grants funding must measure their impact by using at least one of the outcomes below:
- Reduce the rate of middle school students who trigger two or more of three early warning indicators (absences, suspension/expulsion, and course failure)
- Increase the rate of middle school students that have SBA math scores of 3 or higher
- Reduce the rate of students who require development education (remedial coursework) in college
- Increase the rate of students who earn their first college level credits in math and English
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and schools that work with middle school, high school, and college students.
To learn more about how to apply, email Rachel Clements to register for the Introduction to Community Grants Program webinar on July 8th at 10:00 A.M. Giving guidelines, required elements of a project, and how to apply will be discussed.
Between 2005-2015, College Spark awarded more than 120 Community Grants totaling more than $15 million.
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Bridge to College courses in 125 high schools for 2015-16
 Bridge to College courses in math and English language arts will be available in 125 high schools throughout Washington state in the next academic year. These courses are for seniors who score below the college-ready level on the Smarter Balanced Assessment in 11th grade. Students who pass the course will be considered college-ready by many colleges in Washington and permitted to enroll in college-level English and non-STEM math courses without additional placement testing.
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Intensified Algebra
 Intensified Algebra was developed in response to a need, identified by the Urban Math Leadership Network. The double period curriculum is designed to bring 9th grade students who were previously unsuccessful in math up to grade level. Two key components of the program include professional development for teachers and students working in teams. Researchers who have studied program outcomes have found significant probative changes in student and teacher attitudes and beliefs, as well as student achievement in mathematics. Watch a mini-documentary on Intensified Algebra in Chicago Public Schools.
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Using Scholarships Effectively
 Cost is a major barrier to increasing degree attainment. Well-designed scholarship programs can help increase postsecondary enrollment, persistence, and completion by encouraging students to attend higher education, allowing students to enroll full-time or work fewer hours while pursuing a degree, and incorporating nonfinancial supports. The Oregon Community Foundation released a research brief highlighting best practices that support student success through scholarships. |
