Federal funding explorer
Most federal K-12 money reaches schools through states and districts. Individual teachers usually can't apply for it directly — each profile explains the route to access it and what it could pay for.
Formula funding
Allocated through established federal and state formulas — districts receive it automatically when eligible; no open competition.
Competitive grant
Requires an application; awards are made by selection.
State-administered
Federal money passed to state agencies, which run their own subgrant competitions or allocations.
Other funding
Philanthropic grants, corporate sponsorships and classroom fundraising — listed in the main funding directory.
ESSA funding
Improving Basic Programs Operated by Local Educational Agencies
The largest federal K-12 programme. It gives extra money to districts and schools with high numbers or percentages of children from low-income families, to help students meet challenging state standards.
Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants
Helps states and districts improve the quality and effectiveness of teachers, principals and other school leaders through recruitment, retention and professional learning.
English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement and Academic Achievement
Helps English learners and immigrant students attain English proficiency and meet state academic standards.
Student Support and Academic Enrichment
A flexible block grant for three areas: a well-rounded education, safe and healthy students, and effective use of technology.
Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers
Supports academic enrichment during non-school hours — before school, after school and summer — especially for students in high-poverty, low-performing schools.
Rural Education Achievement Program
Helps rural districts that often lack the staff and resources to compete for federal grants. It has two parts: the Small, Rural School Achievement (SRSA) program and the Rural and Low-Income School (RLIS) program.
Education for Homeless Children and Youths
Ensures children and youth experiencing homelessness can enroll in, attend and succeed in school. Authorized under the McKinney-Vento Act, as amended by ESSA (often listed with Title IX, Part A).
Other federal funding
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Provides funding to help states and districts deliver special education and related services to children with disabilities. Part B covers ages 3–21; Part C covers infants and toddlers.
Comprehensive Literacy State Development
Competitive grants to states to improve literacy from birth through grade 12, especially for disadvantaged children. States then make subgrants to districts and early learning providers.
Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act
The main federal investment in career and technical education (CTE) for secondary and postsecondary students.