Classroom and School Grants

We fund educator-driven instructional projects that inspire, educate, and engage students. By partnering closely with the community and Dare County Schools, DEF funds initiatives that fall outside school budgets up to $2500.

Looking for inspiration? Read about our previously funded projects here.
We encourage you to contact us at 252.255.5545 to discuss your project idea prior to applying.

Fall 2024 Application Window: Opens August 20, 2024; Closes October 18, 2024

Spring 2025 Application Window: Opens December 16, 2024; Closes February 24, 2025

Educator Grants

DEF is proud to offer supplemental support for DCS educator endeavors in College Credit coursework, Praxis Certification Exams, National Boards Initial or Renewal Applications, and Professional Development opportunities.

Apply beginning November 1, 2024. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through March 1, 2025, or until funds run out.

Affordable Teacher Housing

Our affordable teacher housing complexes, Run Hill Ridge and Hatteras Teacher Housing, are proven recruitment and retention tools, enabling Dare County Schools (DCS) to hire and keep highly qualified teachers in our classrooms.

Run Hill Ridge is a 24-unit apartment complex located adjacent to the First Flight Schools campus in Kill Devil Hills. Hatteras Teacher Housing is a 12-unit complex located adjacent to the soccer field and the former Coast Guard station. Interest-free loans from the North Carolina State Employees Credit Union Foundation facilitated the construction of both projects.

Rented below market value, the 2-bedroom, 2-bath units are an affordable option for teachers who may not otherwise be able to afford to live in Dare County.

The housing has also assisted DCS in recruiting teachers for positions that are in-need, yet are more difficult to fill, such as foreign languages, advanced math, technology and special needs.

For more information, please contact us, at 252.255.5545 or via our contact form.