Prof+Development+&+Grants


 * Professional Learning Network ** ... consider my favorite resources

** Best blogs & websites for EDU - subscribe to their RSS feeds and/or newsletters **

 * ====**Edudemic** - a network of teachers, administrators, staff, tech enthusiasts and corporate contacts invested in the future of education technology. Bursting with innovative ideas and resources.====
 * ====** Edutopia ** - dedicated to helping teachers learn strategies to empower students to think critically, analyze information, solve problems creatively, work collaboratively, and communicate ideas with impact. It's a marvelous source of teaching resources. ====
 * ====** edWeb.net ** - free webinars on a broad range of topics in education, including technology. ====
 * ====**GFC LearnFree** - free online courses to take at your own pace over a broad range of topics/skills.====
 * ====**Learn It In 5** - learn strategies for using Web 2.0 technology in the classroom in 5 minutes or less.====

** Professional Associations ... for your tech-heart **

 * ====**Illinois Computing Educators** - ICE promotes innovative education by enhancing learning through technology. A fantastic and affordable homegrown resource!====
 * ====**Infinitec** - SEDOL is a Infinitec Member Agency (north region), so you can join for free and explore a wealth of resources and continuing education opportunities for people working with special needs students. Infinitec helps to bring assitive technology into the hands of students, families and educators.====
 * ====**International Society for Technology in Education** - ISTE advances excellence in learning and teaching through innovative and effective uses of technology.====
 * **WIU - STAR Online Resources** - graduate credit can be obtained through the completion of the STAR-Online modules offered through Western Illinois University.

**Grant Money 4 Schools**


 * ====**GetEdFunding** - grant finding resource dedicated to helping educators identify the funding they need in budget-tight times.====
 * ====**Grants.gov** - the source to find & apply for federal grants ... determine if your school is eligible for grant opportunities.====
 * ====**Illinois Environmental Protection Agency** - the Lake Education Assistance Program (LEAP) is initiative offered by the Illinois EPA. LEAP funds are available from kindergarten through graduate school. It funds approximately one hundred lake and lake watershed related educational field trips, seminars/workshops, projects and activities per year. Grant applications are accepted from September 1st to January 31st.====
 * ====**Learn & Serve America Grants** - the largest source of funding for service-learning, supports a variety of education & nonprofit organizations that provide opportunities for youth to serve while they learn.====
 * ====**Target EC Reading Grants** - Early Childhood Reading Grants are $2,000. Grant applications are typically accepted between March 1 and April 30 each year, with grant notifications delivered in September.====
 * ====**Target Field Trip Grants** - K-12 field trips that involve the arts, math, science and/or social studies can qualify for grants valued up to $700.====
 * ====**U.S. Dept. of Ed. Grant Info** - information on grants & government programs, including tips for novice grant writers.====
 * ====**Verizon Foundation** - seeks to provide partnerships that impact communities in the areas of education, literacy, safety and health.====