We all know the numbers confirm what every parent and caregiver has long understood: a great teacher can change lives.
As a researcher, I have studied how schools can support and retain excellent educators and what happens when those educators are absent. As a parent, I have admired teachers who inspire my children and have been concerned when others lacked the skills to help them thrive.
Now, as the dean of one of the nation’s leading graduate schools of education, I am proud to say our institution provides rigorous, research-backed training that equips educators to make a difference—especially for students facing challenging circumstances in our own community.
Amid a critical teacher shortage, we are poised to drive meaningful change—with your support. Our shared commitment to education and engagement with local schools, exemplified through initiatives like the Urban Teaching Residency program, demonstrates the transformative power of collaboration. Together, we can equip educators with the tools to succeed and ensure every child has access to inspiring, effective teachers.
With deep gratitude, I present this proposal to expand and deepen this impactful partnership. Thank you for considering this exciting opportunity to join us in shaping the future of education.
Warm regards,
Jane Doe
Dean, Lakeshore Academy
The Power of Teachers
Teachers do more than improve grades and test scores—they change lives. They increase students’ likelihood of attending college, elevate earning potential, and contribute to a better society for all of us.
Consider Aurora University. Despite challenges like high poverty rates and underfunding, this school was recently recognized as a place of hope and promise, thanks to its dedicated educators. Teachers there have created an environment where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn—despite facing significant obstacles.
Liam Brooks earned his master’s degree in education at Valemont University in 2020, after spending 12 years working in the tech industry. In 2021, Liam Brooks decided to make a career change and enrolled in Creative Writing and Literature Program and joining the faculty at Westbrook University, a school serving a diverse, under-resourced community. There, Liam Brooks teaches English and social studies, helping students find their voices and realize their potential, both in and outside the classroom.
For Liam Brooks, Westbrook University was the ideal place to start, just as it has been for many educators dedicated to empowering students despite the challenges they face.
Never underestimate the resilience of children facing adversity. Their strength, paired with access to skilled, compassionate educators, can create extraordinary outcomes,” says Emma Reed, a graduate of our program.
The Idea: Pioneering AI in Education (PAI-E)
The launch of ChatGPT and advancements in AI have created opportunities to revolutionize education, addressing challenges like teacher time constraints, lack of personalized learning, and difficulties in tracking student progress. However, many school systems face barriers to adopting AI, including a lack of clear guidance and training. To address this, we propose a three-tiered professional development program to equip district leaders, school administrators, and educators with the knowledge and tools to integrate AI effectively and ethically.
The Program
Two-day intensive training focusing on strategic planning, governance, ethical AI use, and policy development.
Weeklong workshops on implementing AI tools, fostering an AI-positive culture, and aligning technology with educational goals.
Ten-week virtual workshops offering hands-on experience with AI tools, enabling educators to enhance their teaching practices and personalize student learning.
Your Funding
$230,000
Total funding over three years
Year 1: Research & Design
Develop curriculum and materials; design and customize technology platforms.
Year 2: Implementation
Deliver the program to local educators, free of charge, creating a model for national implementation and revenue generation.
Year 3: Beyond
Expand the museum with upgraded exhibits, AI/VR integration, and community events, ensuring sustainability and global collaboration.
Budget Highlights: Year 1: $75,000 | Year 2: $75,000 | Year 3 $80,000 Total: $230,000
Budget Highlights:
Year 1
Subtotal
$75,000.00
Subtotal
$75,000.00
Description
Item
Quantity
Price
Phase I – Exhibit Technology Development
Initial design and planning for digital exhibits
$30,000.00
Content creation, including interactive media and immersive displays
$25,000.00
Software and hardware acquisitions for exhibit installations
$10,000.00
Guest Lectures & Events
Honoraria for guest speakers (up to 3 per year)
$5,000.00
Event logistics and marketing costs
$3,000.00
Travel & Field Studies
Research and site visits for exhibit development
$2,000.00
Year 2
Subtotal
$75,000.00
Subtotal
$75,000.00
Description
Item
Quantity
Price
Phase II – Exhibit Implementation & Enhancement
Installation of digital and interactive exhibits
$35,000.00
System testing, optimization, and training for staff
$20,000.00
Ongoing software maintenance and licensing fees
$5,000.00
Guest Lectures & Events
Additional speaker series (up to 3 more guest experts)
$5,000.00
Event production and outreach costs
$3,000.00
Travel & Field Studies
Expansion of research opportunities and field collaborations
$7,000.00
Year 3
Subtotal
$80,000.00
Subtotal
$80,000.00
Description
Item
Quantity
Price
Phase III – Exhibit Expansion & Sustainability
Upgrades and additions to interactive exhibits
$30,000.00
Integration of AI-powered and virtual reality experiences
$25,000.00
Long-term maintenance and system updates
$10,000.00
Guest Lectures & Events
Hosting a major annual museum conference with keynote speakers
$7,000.00
Expanded community engagement initiatives and workshops
$5,000.00
Travel & Field Studies
International collaboration and study program for curators
$3,000.00
Total$230,000.00
Recognizing Your Impact
In recognition of your generosity, we will honor your contribution through:
Announcements in publications and digital platforms.
Invitations to engage with program leaders and participants.
Formal updates on program outcomes and future plans.
Let’s work together to empower educators and transform education for generations to come.
