Designing Lessons that Develop Conceptual Understanding Grant (PK-5)
Grant for PK–5 teachers to create, test, and share hands-on math lessons that build conceptual understanding, with a focus on underrepresented students in STEM.
Funder: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
Due Dates: November 1, 2026 (full application due)
Funding Amounts: $2,500 per award; funds must be used for lesson development, materials, and dissemination activities.
Summary: Supports PK–5 teachers to design, pilot, and share hands-on math lessons that foster conceptual understanding, especially for underrepresented students in STEM.
Key Information: Primary applicant must be an NCTM member; no indirect costs allowed; past recipients ineligible.
Description
This grant, sponsored by the Chuck Thompson Fund through the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), provides funding to elementary teachers (PK–5) for the development, implementation, and dissemination of hands-on mathematics lessons. The aim is to foster deep conceptual understanding in students, with a particular emphasis on supporting those underrepresented in STEM fields and leveraging students' linguistic and cultural assets. Grant recipients are expected to pilot and revise these lessons in their classrooms and share their work with colleagues both within and beyond their schools.
