State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant

The State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant is a funding opportunity provided by the Maryland State Department of Education to support public schools in Maryland in organizing student field trips to qualified state-aided educational institutions. The grant aims to enhance educational experiences by subsidizing transportation costs, with a focus on schools where at least 40% of students qualify for the federal free or reduced-price meal program, thereby prioritizing schools serving economically disadvantaged populations. The total available funding for this initiative is $600,000, which is allocated across various local education agencies (LEAs) based on specific distributions outlined in the grant documentation. The grant period runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, with applications due by December 1, 2025, and the application process includes detailed instructions, eligibility criteria, and a review and scoring rubric. The program emphasizes responsible use of funds for transportation expenses related to educational field trips, with allowable costs clearly defined and disallowed expenses specified. Each LEA receives a designated grant amount, ranging from approximately $8,161 to over $53,000, depending on the size and needs of the district, ensuring equitable distribution across Maryland's counties and Baltimore City. The application process is supported by comprehensive guidance documents, including a Grant Information Guide released in June 2025, which provides detailed instructions on application submission, eligibility, budget planning, and review procedures. Contact information for program support is readily available, ensuring applicants can seek assistance throughout the process. This initiative seeks to promote educational enrichment through accessible field trip opportunities, particularly for schools serving higher proportions of economically disadvantaged students.