Gotta Getta Grant

Faced with an elementary school in dire need of curb appeal, Tyler Duff organized "sweat equity" in the form of 250 college students to pitch in with painting and landscaping. But even with ample human resources, Duff, an NEA Student member, had no materials budget. So he applied for and-bingo!-received a $1,000 NEA grant to fund the repairs.

NEW TEACHERS can always use some cash for projects, so follow Dunn's lead and flex your grant-writing skills.

"If you provide a clear statement of your financial need, and make a persuasive case that your project will benefit the [student chaper or local Association] and the community, you'll be a strong candidate for a grant," says Duff. "Someone will say 'yes' if you keep at it."

Grants tailored to everything from studio art projects to educational nutrition are available at www.nea.org/grants. Get started early. You'll need plenty of time to develop and refine your vision, secure buy-in from administration, and prepare the forms and supporting materials.