Reaching one classroom at a time, REACH Grants

REACH Grants for NPPSD Educators

The REACH Grants program funds projects which pioneer innovative approaches to teaching that cannot currently be funded through NPPS District's budget. The goal is to give educators financial support to inspire students and change lives.

Since its inception in 1994, the North Platte Public Schools Foundation has worked toward a common vision – ensuring quality education for our children. The best way to accomplish this goal is by supporting the educators who turn this vision into reality. More than $271,000 has been given to North Platte educators through the REACH grant program since 1998. It's a great way to invest in education.

REACH Grant Application Process

The 2025-2026 Grants will benefit 20 classrooms and almost the entire student body. Applications will open again June 1, 2026.

All current educators in North Platte Public School District are eligible to apply for REACH grants. The REACH grant application — submitted online — will be opening for the 2026-2027 school year. Thanks to Wilkinson Companies-Fat Dog's for matching the Foundation's Funds. Applications are ongoing. During this school year since the focus is on classrooms the target amount is $500. If you have an idea that would encompass the entire building or is over $500 they will still be taken into consideration. Please discuss with your building administrator before submitting an application.

Applications are reviewed by an independent grant committee, including the NPPSD curriculum advisors and a member of the NPPSD IT team. The grant committee utilizes the REACH Grant Policy Guidelines to assist in determining the winners.

Those educators receiving REACH Grant funding will need to write a summary of how the funds were used.

REACH Grant Criteria

1. Demonstrate innovative and effective ways to meet student needs and are curricular in nature.
2. Pioneer new approaches, instead of merely repeating an existing project. (renewal of projects are appropriate)
3. Projects are not currently eligible for support through the North Platte Public Schools’ budget. Ask your the building administrator if you have questions.
4. Increase student adjustment, interest and motivation to learn.
5. Projects that meet the educational goals or mission of North Platte Public Schools, its buildings’ strategic plans and/or the needs of its students.
6. Encourages team/joint application.

NPPSF Will Not Fund
1. Miscellaneous or general supplies and/or incentives (not related to the project).
2. Salaries or wages including sub pay.
3. Nothing, which would allow for facility alterations or additions.
4. Will not fund anything not within the guidelines of the district technology or curriculum plans.

REACH Grant Applications

Purpose of the REACH grants; the grant program is designed to encourage innovative, creative, and quality education in the North Platte Public School District. The Foundation's mission is "to support the schools, districts efforts to provide expanded opportunities for all students." All funds for this program are from generous donors who believe that investing in education will change our future.

REACH Online Application Applications will be reviewed for the 2026-2027 school year.

2025-26 Grants Awarded

10/2/2025 JeffersonDr. Eshleman TV for Communication https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/10/02/jefferson-elementary-celebrates-student-achievements-with-new-tvs-thanks-reach-grant/

10/9/2025 BuffaloMs. MiltonField Trips: Dusty Trails, Fire Station https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/10/08/buffalo-elementary-awarded-reach-grant-fund-field-trips/

10/16/2025 NPHS Mrs. McDaniel Bringing the Stage to Students https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/10/17/north-platte-theater-teacher-wins-reach-grant-fund-performances-elementary-schools/

10/23/2025 Adams Mrs. Brousius Blitz Day https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/10/24/adams-middle-school-principal-wins-reach-grant-incentive-program/

10/30/2025 NPHS Mr. Stoner Philadelphia Orchestra https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/10/31/north-platte-orchestra-director-awarded-reach-grant-professional-performance-trip/

11/6/2025 NPHS Ms. Sheets EL Family Night https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/11/07/north-platte-public-schools-el-teacher-awarded-reach-grant-student-recognition-event/

11/13/2025 NPHS Mrs. Foster You Science incentatives https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/11/14/reaching-one-classroom-time-north-platte-high-schools-youscience-initiative/

11/20/2025 Jefferson Ms. Boyle Senory Table https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/11/21/reaching-one-classroom-time-jefferson-elementary-sensory-table/1

2/4/2025 Lake Ms. Bailey One Book, One School https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/12/05/reaching-one-classroom-time-lake-elementary-one-book-one-school/

12/11/2025 NPHS Mr. Zogg Drift Trike https://www.knopnews2.com/2025/12/11/reaching-one-classroom-time-drift-trike-north-platte-high-school/