State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant
Funds transportation for Maryland public school field trips to designated State-Aided Institutions, with priority for high-needs schools to enhance experiential learning.
Funder: Maryland State Department of Education
Due Dates: September 4, 2026 (Full application) | September 30, 2026 (Budget Narrative & C-1-25) | January 29, 2027 (Interim report & Field Trip Log) | August 29, 2027 (Final invoices) | August 31, 2027 (Final report & Field Trip Log)
Funding Amounts: $600,000 total; typical LEA award is $16,333 base (or $8,008 for SEED School) plus additional per-pupil funding for high-needs students; grant period is July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027.
Summary: Supports transportation costs for Maryland public school field trips to designated State-Aided Institutions, prioritizing high-needs schools.
Key Information: At least 80% of funds must support schools with >40% students eligible for Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARMs).
Description
This grant provides funding to Maryland Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to cover transportation costs for student field trips to nonprofit educational institutions designated as State-Aided Institutions (SAIs). The program aims to broaden access to enriching, experiential learning opportunities outside the classroom, especially for students in high-needs schools. There are currently 57 SAIs across Maryland, offering programs aligned with state curricular standards. The grant is designed to prioritize schools where more than 40% of enrolled students are eligible for the federal Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARMs) program.
