How KanDo Works

The KanDo^SM is a program that begins with a teacher who wants to provide his or her students with a program that cannot be funded through the normal physical education budget. When submitting a proposal, the teacher must describe and list the materials needed to make the program a reality.

Before accepting a proposal, KanDo^SM staff verify the teacher's identity; confirm the existence of requested materials; negotiate discounts with Flaghouse and attach a cost to the proposal; and, finally, review the proposed student project. If anything is unclear, an email or phone call will be made to the teacher requesting clarification or additional information.

After the proposal is verified, donors can browse the submissions.. A donor can make a tax-deductible contribution that fully or partially funds a chosen proposal.

When a proposal is funded, KanDo^SM negotiates purchases the materials and has them delivered to the physical educator’s school. KanDo^SM also sends each educator a disposable camera. This camera will be used to take pictures of the “students in action” using the purchased equipment and the teacher and students working with the outcomes of the project. In addition a stamped envelope is sent to the physical educator so that s/he can put in the photographs, student thank-you notes, and a teacher letter. Upon receiving this information, KanDo^SM attaches receipts, and forwards this package to the donor .

FAQ

Who can submit proposals?

Any physical educator in the state of Kansas who is a member of KAHPERD can submit a proposal.

Is there a $$ limit on what I can ask for?

Yes. Proposals range from $100 for to $2,000. KanDo^SM will not fund any proposal under $100; it is the belief that teachers should be able to find that type of funding. KanDo^SM will also not fund proposals over $2,000; it is the belief that over this amount, the school district needs to provide extensive assistance.

 What kind of materials and/or equipment can I ask for?

Teachers can propose any type of equipment or resource that is essential to reach the outcomes of the project. This would include any activity equipment, paper, books, etc. KanDo^SM will NOT pay for travel or conference registration for the teacher. The materials and equipment must be directly related to the proposed project and for use by students.

How do I write a grant proposal – I am really not very good at writing these things?

The online application form presents teachers with a very simple form. The form includes a section for describing the project and why and how the proposal would directly benefit the students in the school. It also includes a section for a listing of requisite materials and equipment. Experience with grant writing is unnecessary and it is hoped that the simplicity of the form and process not only discourages the use of “educational jargon” but encourages many teachers to submit proposals to help students

What is the most common problem with a submitted proposal?

The most common problem is focusing the project on the equipment instead of the value of the project to the student. The equipment and materials allow a project to occur – these items are not the focus or outcome of the project. Student learning should be the primary focus of the proposal. Occasionally, a teacher will center the proposal body on the materials needed rather than on the student activity to take place. For example, a teacher proposing to get a heart rate monitors indicates that s/he does not have any monitors. The proposal should focus on the first student activity that the heart rate monitors will make possible. The resources have no worth in and of themselves—its how students will use them.

How does KanDo^SM handle my proposal after I’ve submitted it?

First, the staff verifies that the physical educator does, in fact, work at the school he/she listed; confirms the existence of the materials requested; negotiates possible discounts and attaches a cost; and, finally, reviews the body of the proposal. If there are any uncertainties, the staff will e-mail or phone the teacher follow-up questions. Proposals will be acted on within 7 working days.

What happens if my proposal is funded?

A typical grant program would send the teacher a check, and require that he/she buy and deliver the materials, compile receipts, and compose a detailed report. When a proposal is funded, KanDo^SM negotiates purchases the materials and has them delivered to the physical educator’s school. KanDo^SM also sends each educator a disposable camera. This camera will be used to take pictures of the “students in action” using the purchased equipment and the teacher and students working with the outcomes of the project. In addition a stamped envelope is sent to the physical educator so that s/he can put in the photographs, student thank-you notes, and a teacher letter. Upon receiving this information, KanDo^SM attaches receipts, and forwards this package to the donor.

How long will it take for my proposal to be funded?

This is difficult to determine. Proposals may be funded within 48 hours of being posted, while others may not be funded for up to 12 months. It is projected that the average wait time is 2-3 months.