The Ron Matsko-Ensel Grant

The Ron Matsko-Ensel Grant is awarded to educators committed to developing ethics, creativity, and character in their students. This grant supports creative work in peace and character education, ethics and forgiveness, social justice, inner peace and spirituality.

What We Fund & Who Can Apply

Honoring a legacy of creativity and ethical education, The Ron Matsko-Ensel Grant is open to educators from pre-K through 12 to apply for grants of up to $5,000.

Funding supports the development of curriculum or the creation of programs that (1) strengthen peace and character education, (2) explore ethics and ethical behavior, (3) advance theories of cooperation such as friendship, forgiveness, and pro-social engagement, and (4) foster spiritual development or mindfulness practices that build inner peace.

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Leadership & Service

For applicants with a record of service, community leadership, or educational impact

Educators

Encouraging pre-K through 12th grade  educators to design new curriculum or programs

Peace & Cooperation

Supporting projects rooted in peace education, ethics, cooperation, forgiveness, and mindfulness

Application Details & Timeline

Applications are accepted year-round, but reviews take place twice a year, March 15 and October 15. Submissions received before March 15 are considered in the spring cycle, and those received before October 15 are considered in the fall cycle.

Applicants will be notified of decisions within 90 days of the review date.

All application materials should be submitted electronically by email to info@biosophical.org with “Ron Matsko-Ensel Grant” in the subject line.

Submission Requirements

Cover Letter

One page including (1) the applicant’s name, (2) mailing address, (3) phone, (4) email,     (5) sponsoring institution (if applicable), (6) the project title, and (7) a brief summary of the proposed work.

Proposal & Budget

The proposal should be no longer than four pages, describe the project, explain its potential impact, identify the target age group, and outline a clear timeline. A detailed project budget should be included.

Curriculum Vitae

A current CV that highlights the applicant’s academic or professional background and relevant experience.

References

Two letters of reference may be submitted as as separate, clearly labeled documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to the most common questions about The Ron Matsko-Ensel Grant. If you need more details, please reach out to us at info@biosophical.org for more information.

Who is eligible to apply?

This grant is open to educators from pre-K through 12.

When will I hear back about my application?

Applications are reviewed on March 15 and October 15. Notifications are sent within 90 days of each review date.

How much funding is available?

Applicants may request up to $5,000. The award is intended to cover project-related expenses such as curriculum development, program materials, facilitation, or other direct costs.

What kinds of projects are considered?

Projects may include curriculum development, classroom or school-wide programs, and educational workshops that promote peace and character education, ethics, cooperation, forgiveness, or mindfulness.

Do I need to be based in Maine to apply?

No. While the Institute is based in Maine, the grant is open to applicants from outside the state, but within the United States, whose work clearly reflects the Institute’s mission and themes. 

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