Dr. Bernard J. DuBray STEAM Grant for Fine Arts Educators

The Dr. Bernard J. DuBray STEAM Grant for Fine Arts Educators, offered by the EDC in partnership with Partners for Community Progress, provides up to $1,000 for STEAM-related Fine Arts materials for the 2025–2026 academic year. This initiative extends the organizations’ long-standing support for STEM into arts education, enabling educators to innovate in music, theatre, visual arts, and more using technology as a catalyst. The program builds on EDC’s extensive history of supporting STEM enrichment in St. Charles County, including robotics programs and summer camps. Eligible applicants are K–12 Fine Arts teachers at public and private schools within St. Charles County, Missouri. Instructional areas supported by the grant include Art, Band, Choir, Music, Orchestra, and Theatre. The program prioritizes classroom-based projects that enhance fine arts curricula through technology. Examples of eligible uses include adaptive technology for diverse learners, audio/visual equipment to boost engagement or performance quality, and software for music composition or graphic design. Projects must support STEAM learning outcomes or promote student readiness for future STEAM-related courses or careers. Each proposal must clearly state how the requested materials will be used, focusing on innovation, instructional integration, and the ability to reuse items in future years or across multiple grade levels. Funds must be requested for items not already included in current school budgets or instructional plans. Applicants whose proposed budgets exceed $1,000 are required to disclose how they will cover the remaining costs. Submissions will be reviewed by the EDC’s STEM Education Committee, which includes educators, business professionals, and civic leaders, with additional input from a Fine Arts subcommittee. Evaluation will emphasize instructional impact, alignment with STEAM goals, feasibility, and long-term value. The strongest proposals will demonstrate thoughtful planning and a commitment to enhancing arts instruction through meaningful and sustainable technology integration. Although the 2025 grant funds have been fully allocated, the next application cycle is expected to begin in late December. Interested educators should prepare their applications in advance and be ready to submit once the portal reopens. Detailed guidance regarding submission, evaluation, and award timelines will be available at that time.

Emphasize cross-grade reusability and STEAM career preparation to strengthen proposal.