2011-2012 Program Description

The Teaching Excellence Program is funded by the Southwestern Foundation and has the purpose of promoting excellence in teaching and professional growth of Southwestern teachers. The program supports initiatives in teaching and service, or innovative improvements in existing courses and programs.

An amount of $5,000 is available for 2011-12. Typically grants range between $1,000 and $2,500 each. However, larger requests are also considered.

Applications can be submitted throughout the year as long as funds are available. The first application submission deadline has been extended to 5:00 PM, April 1, 2012.

Eligibility
Any employee of Southwestern Oregon Community College who has a direct responsibility of instructing students is eligible for the Teaching Excellence Program. Proposals will be evaluated on several criteria:

• Innovation. How original and interesting is the idea?
• Impact. How would the project impact the greater community and the college’s relations with the community?
• Detail. How much thoughtful detail is demonstrated? Is the applicant clear on how the money would be spent?
• Other funding. How likely would it be that the Teaching Excellence money would be the only chance for financial backing of the project?
• “Wow!” What is the overall impression of the project?

Guidelines for Proposals
Projects supported by the Teaching Excellence Program must benefit the teaching or service functions of the College and have visible benefits. Projects should encourage innovation and professional growth of our teachers. Proposals should not be submitted for projects that can be supported through the regular budget.

Faculty projects are intended to be a collaborative effort between the teacher and the Foundation. Projects should involve the time, effort, and creativity of the applicant and the financial resources of the Foundation.

Funds can be used for travel, materials and supplies, equipment, and support services. Funds should not be requested to pay for salary or to provide release time.

Application Procedure
Applicants should use the Teaching Excellence Program Application form. It is intended to be simple and consists essentially of a narrative description, anticipated outcomes and a budget. The application deadline is February 1, 2012.  

Applications will be reviewed by the Faculty Development Committee and recommendations for funding forwarded to the Vice President of Instruction. Successful proposals will then be announced.  The term of projects is from time of award (2011-12) to the end of the next academic year. Please direct any questions to Faculty Development Committee Chair Fred Brick.

Assessment
A written report will be expected based on a dates determined by the College Foundation Board and after completion of the project. This report will be forwarded to the Vice President of Instruction and the College Foundation Board.