Statement of the Problem: Include information gathered from needs assessments and demographic data. Discuss trends that highlight the urgency of the issue and clearly state how the program will affect academic achievement. Explain the problem as it relates to the population you will serve. Cite achievements to date and how the proposed program will build upon success. Identify gaps and how the proposed project will fill those needs.
Goal (The desired end of the proposed activities): Clearly state the changes in skills, behaviors, and attitudes that you hope to achieve as a result of your activities. The goal should be the inverse of the problem. Show clearly how your goals are aligned with the goals of the potential funding source.
Objectives: Objectives are the measurable milestones that indicate progress toward the goal. Tell what is to be accomplished. For example, 60% of all eighth graders will pass Algebra I. All Objectives must be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time Limited.
Project Design/Methods/Activities (the solution to the problem): Summarize how you propose to meet the stated need and how you will achieve your objectives and goals. List activities and create a timeline of events that illustrates your work plan for the proposed project. Describe the resources you will use. Demonstrate that the project is well designed and will be well managed.
Key personnel: Introduce the key persons involved and briefly state their qualifications. Describe the roles and responsibilities of key personnel.
Roles and Responsibilities of Partners: Explain the relationship among the programs and partners. Indicate pass success of the partnership or collaboration. Provide an organizational chart and job descriptions. Indicate lines of communication as well as lines of authority. Clearly indicate the budgetary impact of the partnership or collaboration.
Evaluation: Indicate how you will measure progress for each of the stated objectives. Focus on measuring changes in skills, behaviors, and attitudes rather than describing and assessing your activities. Specify who will be responsible for the evaluation and what methods will be used to ensure timely, continuous collection of evaluation information. Build evaluation in from the beginning rather than waiting for the end of the project. Evaluation and goal setting go hand in hand. For MCPS supported project grants, contact the Office of Shared Accountability to seek their guidance and approval.
Budget: Make sure you request sufficient resources to complete the project. Make sure that the budget is consistent with the program or project. The funding source will want to know that financial resources fully support the proposed activities and will be used efficiently and effectively. Indicate in-kind support for the project including donation of office space and existing equipment as well as the value of volunteer time and expertise from community supporters.
Plan for Continuation: Explain how the program will continue after the grant funds expire.
Proposal Summary: (write this last by taking pieces from each of the above sections) In your one page summary be sure to include the statement of your goals and the needs you will address. Briefly explain how the project will be implemented and evaluated. State the roles and responsibilities of all involved organizations. Explain how funds will be used to implement the project.
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