Indiana schools can get cash for innovative programs

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Schools with innovative educational ideas can apply for a share of $2.5 million from the Indiana Department of Education.

Applications for the Innovation Fund grants - available online here - must be submitted by Dec. 31. Recipients will be selected early next spring. The Legislature created the fund in the 2011- 2013 biennial state budget.

The department says the grants are open to schools, districts, charters, nonprofits and other entities that want to help improve students' academic performance through creative programs. The programs must address teacher effectiveness, college and career readiness, or overall school improvement. Existing programs are eligible if the school wants to expand them.

Individual grant amounts will not exceed $500,000.