The Champlin Foundation offers a competitive grant program for Rhode Island public secondary schools, focusing on promoting classroom innovation. In 2025, the Foundation will accept applications from high schools only, with middle and junior high schools eligible in alternate years. Each school may submit one application per year, with requests capped at $100,000. However, schools with open grants (i.e., those that have not yet submitted a final Use of Funds Report) are not eligible to apply until those grants are closed. All applications from public schools must be submitted during Cycle Two, which opens on June 1st and closes on July 1st.

The grants aim to support hands-on learning initiatives developed by teachers addressing critical classroom needs in an innovative manner. The Foundation seeks proposals focused on a single, clearly defined project that enhances student engagement through practical, experiential learning. Proposals that bundle unrelated components or cover general school needs will not be considered. The program prioritizes funding for capital items like classroom equipment, technology, or infrastructure, with a particular focus on areas such as arts, sciences, English, mathematics, music, computer science, physical education, and vocational training. Projects that support advanced placement or honors-level courses are also welcomed. Importantly, schools serving higher percentages of economically disadvantaged students will receive preference in the grant evaluation process.

All applicants must ensure that a clear contact person with updated phone and email information is designated for communication throughout the school year and summer. Additionally, the application must include a Permission to Proceed form, signed by both the school’s principal and superintendent, as part of the submission process. This form is available online for applicants to download.

It should be noted that independent and charter schools follow the same application process as other nonprofit grantees, and they may apply during either of the Champlin Foundation’s two capital request cycles. These schools are not subject to the public school-specific restrictions outlined in this program.