Rockford Education Foundation Grants

REF's mission is to provide funding for educational opportunities, both basic and innovative, in the Rockford community. Through our grant programs, REF supports innovative classroom projects, student-led initiatives, and opportunities that enhance learning throughout Rockford Public Schools.

Before You Apply

We encourage all staff and students with innovative ideas to apply for REF grant funding.

Before submitting an application, please note:

Grant funding is limited and applications are reviewed competitively.
Not all grant applications can be funded.
Applications must align with REF grant guidelines and district policies.
Grant requests must be approved by the applicant's supervisor (Principal, Administrator, etc.) before submission.

If you're unsure whether your idea is a good fit, we encourage you to contact REF with questions: ref@rockfordschools.org.

2026-2027 REF Grant Deadlines and Information

Small Grants (up to $2,000)

Tuesday, September 8, 2026 - 8pm
Monday, October 13, 2026 - 8pm
Monday, February 8, 2027 - 8pm

Large Grants ($2,001 - $15,000)

Monday, October 13, 2026 - 8pm
- Grant Review Meeting Date - October 26, 5-9pm
Monday, February 8, 2027 - 8pm
- Grant Review Meeting Date - February 22, 5-9pm

Large Grant applicants must:

Submit a brief video overview of their proposal. Videos may be submitted with the grant application or emailed to ref@rockfordschools.org.
Participate in a 15-minute Large Grant Review Meeting with REF Trustees. Following submission, Large Grant applicants will be contacted to schedule their 15-minute review meeting time.

Student Grants - (Up to $500)

Monday, March 15, 2027, 8pm (ongoing approvals)
Reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the school year

Student Grant requests must be initiated and written by the student(s). Requests clearly conceived by or written by a parent, teacher, or administrator will generally not be considered. Applicants will be notified of their status periodically throughout the year.

Tips for a Successful Application

Successful applications typically:

Clearly explain how students will benefit
Demonstrate impact beyond a single classroom, school year, or group of students
Include realistic and well-researched costs
Align with district goals and policies
Explain how the requested resources will be used over time

General Grant Guidelines

REF funds grants that are educational in nature.
REF grants are intended to impact as many learners as possible over a multi-year horizon.
REF grants are one-time in nature.
All grant items must be ordered by April 15 of the same academic year.
Technology-related requests must be reviewed by the RPS Technology Department prior to the application deadline.
Individuals may apply for one (1) Small Grant and one (1) Large Grant during the same academic year.
Students may apply for one (1) Student Grant per school year.
Applicants may be listed as collaborators on additional group applications.

What REF Typically Does Not Fund

The following requests generally will not be approved:

Consumable or one-time use items (food, t-shirts, supplies that require ongoing replacement, etc.)
Gift cards or other cash-equivalent items
Travel expenses
Playground equipment, furniture, or items anticipated to be included in future bond projects
New curriculum that has not been approved by the school district
Reimbursement for purchases already made
Items used for personal profit or any for-profit activity