Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between “Instructional Technology” and “Information Technology” in the K-12 CITI grants?
It has come to our attention that there may be some confusion over Instructional Technology vs. Information Technology in the K-12 CITI grants. While Instructional Technology (technology used by the teacher in instruction as a tool to aid in the learning of the subject being taught) is certainly beneficial to students, it is Information Technology education (the development of skills, conceptual understanding, and high-order thinking capabilities that comprise IT fluency. See ISTE's National Educational Technology Standards http://cnets.iste.org) that this grant is directed to enhance. All proposals should explicitly state their Information Technology learning objectives."

Are “Indirect Expenses” allowable under these grants?
No, Indirect Expenses must be waived by your institution.

Is equipment an allowable expense under these grants?
The primary focus of the grants is on professional development and so the primary piece of the budget should be allocated to fund professional development activities. A small portion may be allowable for equipment if your proposal can justify it as essential for the professional development activity. There are many other grants programs if you are looking to fund hardware costs for your district.

What is the role of the Networks for the RFP?
We are using the PreK-16 Networks as an organizing tool and communications network to bring together a broad range of organizations. The lead partner on each proposal must notify the head of their PreK-16 network of their intention to submit their proposal. Ideally members of the network would work together to put together fewer, but stronger proposals.

Is there a limit on the number of proposals? No. However, we encourage you to work together with your Network to focus energy on stronger proposals with broader impact. Ideally we are looking for geographic diversity in the grant awards.

Would you want to give more than one grant to a particular region or would you prefer to spread it around the state?
There are more regions than grants. Though we can give more than one grant to a region, we would prefer to spread the grants geographically.

Is there an evaluation rubric? How do you evaluate?
No, there is no set scorecard. Proposals will be evaluated on the basis of their ability to achieve the grant priorities. The decision making body is a blind panel of experts in the area of K-12 IT integration.

Does it matter what type of lead partner we have? Elementary? Secondary? College?
The RFP does not give preference on the lead partner. We want you to do what makes sense with your proposal

CITI is funded by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education.

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