This scholarship application is for K-12 educators who plan to bring their classes to Suttons Bay or Traverse City, Michigan, to participate in ISEA’s school programs. Our scholarship funding can only be used to partially or fully assist with program fees. We cannot assist with transportation or other associated field trip costs.
All scholarship funding is allocated depending on need. As demand for program financial assistance continues to increase, we are unable to award all scholarship requests due to funding restrictions, which fluctuate from year to year. Receipt of funding for one year does not guarantee future funding – schools must apply for funding annually.
Scholarships are allocated on a rolling basis. We encourage you to apply as early as possible, and at least two months before your program date. We will be in touch with results within 2-3 weeks of receiving your application.
If awarded a scholarship, you are required to:
- Pay any remaining balance not covered by the scholarship awarded to you.
- Complete the teacher evaluation survey after your program.
- Write a thank-you letter to the funder providing your scholarship. Instructions will be provided at a later time.
Other funding sources to consider:
- EGLE “From Students to Stewards Initiative” (FS2S) – Wheels to Water: Schools can apply for up to $1,000 to cover transportation costs for field trips occurring August 2026 – May 2027. The field trips must “occur in a Michigan freshwater ecosystem, and include experiential learning activities that teach students about the Great Lakes”.
- Ask local businesses for field trip support. Local businesses are often interested in providing community support. Ask local businesses if they would be willing to sponsor your class’s trip. Just be sure to thank them whether through student-made cards, a presentation, or in another creative way!
- Ask your local Rotary, Zonta, Kiwanis, or Lions Club (or similar). Many of these organizations have scholarship funds to allocate towards schools or community projects.