BEAR Grant

In 2014, the BEAR Legacy Grant was originated by the White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation (WBLAEF). The purpose of the grant is to support White Bear Lake Area School District students, staff and community members working with students. In keeping with the WBLAEF mission of enhancing education for all students, the grant provides an inclusive, flexible and expedient means for applicants to apply for funds that encourage initiatives around innovation, creativity, community, and global projects.

Up to $10,000 will be awarded each year and applications will continue to be reviewed on a continual basis until the maximum has been awarded. Projects will be funded for 12 months. After 12 months, any undistributed funds will revert back to the White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation.

Applicant Eligibility & Grant terms

Deadline: Ongoing (September 1 - August 31)

Who May Apply:

  • White Bear Lake Area School District Employees

  • Students attending the White Bear Lake Area School District

  • Community members in the White Bear Lake Area School District

Eligible Projects:  All projects must enhance the learning experience or personal growth of White Bear Lake Area School District students, as per the WBLAEF mission, and develop opportunities that compliment the District Mission and/or Strategic Plan. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Innovation Grants in math, science, technology, STEM, ROBOTICS, problem solving

  • Creativity Grants in the fine arts, music, theatre, and dance

  • Citizenship Grants in communication (World Language, composition, journalism), leadership, community, International Baccalaureate, health and fitness

Projects that fall under Brosious Grants, Glasrud Fellowships, E3 Grants, or Ryan Art Grants will not be considered for a BEAR Grant. Please refer to the descriptions of each.

Selection Process: The White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation’s Program Committee will review BEAR Legacy Grant applications.

Award Range: Up to $10,000 in funds will be awarded each school year (September 1 - August 31). Applications will be reviewed on a continual basis throughout the year until the maximum of $10,000 per year has been awarded.  Projects will be funded for twelve months. After twelve months, any unexpended funds will revert back to the White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation.

  • After funds are awarded, receipts for grant items must be sent to the WBLAEF office. Once received, payment will be made by the WBLAEF.

Evaluation: A written results-based evaluation or personal presentation to the Foundation Board is required within two months of completing the project. Evaluations or presentations must be submitted or arranged with the WBLAEF office. CLICK HERE to submit the evaluation.

Questions? Please contact the WBLAEF office at 651-407-7696.

APPLY HERE

Complete the online application below and submit.  If District Staff, please have your Principal review the project prior to submitting this application, with agreement that the project is within compliance of the District’s goals.