The learning of tomorrow starts with out-of-this-world thinking today. And while we recently recognized seven awardees whose innovative ideas will forge a brighter future for all learners through the first round of our Moonshot Grants, we’re just getting started. As the educational landscape continues to evolve rapidly, we are seeking additional ideas that aim for the stars in round two of this exciting funding opportunity.
“The projects selected in round one strove to rethink traditional conceptions of when learning can take place, where it takes place, and how students are engaging,” said Tyler Samstag, Remake Learning Network Director. “The learning environment is vastly different than ever before and we hope to see round two applicants craft groundbreaking ideas as students return to the classroom.”
Does your school or program have a bold idea that challenges the status quo—and wants to be considered for funding in this next phase of Moonshot Grants? The following tips are designed to help you craft a proposal that will align with funding priorities and truly shake the stratosphere of education.
1. Embrace the new and novel
Your proposal may address a longstanding problem in your school or community, but your solution should embody a new approach. Think beyond traditional committees, curriculum roll-outs, or professional development. Remember that the ‘normal’ we once knew may no longer work for this generation of learners.
2. Look beyond current programming
Moonshot Grants are designed to build and test new ideas and projects, not support existing programming. Envision how your idea can shape innovative, sustainable ways of learning.
3. Prioritize collaboration
Through the pandemic, we’ve all come to realize the importance of collaboration in supporting the whole learner. Think specifically about the partners you could engage in your Moonshot project. Be proactive about connecting with them and involve them in the development of your proposal.
4. Center justice and equity
For Moonshot Grants to build a better future and actively combat the realities of educational injustice, we must give additional support to learners who have been historically underserved, underrepresented, or otherwise pushed to the margins of our classrooms. Proposals that challenge these barriers will be given preference.
5. Connect the dots
The Moonshot application will ask you to describe your vision for the future of learning. Your proposal should outline a clear path to achieving that future. Look for inspiration in signals of change or early examples of how preferred futures are emerging today.
The second round of proposals will be accepted through August 22 and recipients will be announced on September 20. Unsuccessful applicants from the first round may apply again, either with their original proposal or a new proposal.
Prospective applicants must attend one of three informational workshops on June 29, July 22, or August 5 before submitting a proposal. Those who attended a first-round workshop do not need to attend again.
For additional questions on crafting applications, open office hour sessions will be held on July 6, July 27, and August 17. Applicants can also reach out to apply@remakelearning.org for assistance.
The moon is a good starting point, but the universe is vast. Think bigger and go beyond. We can’t wait to see more of your ideas for building a future of learning that is more engaging, relevant, and equitable than ever before.