Overview

Provided by the Ministry of Education, the Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grant allows school boards to work with their Parent Involvement Committee and/or school councils to develop projects that:

  • Address local parent, family and caregiver needs 
  • Remove barriers to parent, family and caregiver participation in their child’s education.

PRO Grant projects support the diversity of parent needs and parent communities at the local level.

Criteria for Funding

Project demonstrates parent input on how schools can improve in at least one of the following areas:

  • Creating a safe and welcoming environment at the school for all families.
  • Supporting families to feel like valued partners when making decisions about their child’s education.
  • Enhancing communication between families and school staff.
  • Informing parents about the expectations of the Ontario Curriculum and sharing other supporting resources.

The projects must be completed and expenses incurred between September 8, 2026 and June 1, 2027.

What Costs Are Not Eligible? 

PRO Grant funding cannot be used for: 

  • Activities that took place before September 8, 2026
  • Payment to school board staff or volunteers, including salaries, honoraria, and gifts 
  • Refreshments that exceed 10% of the approved funding
  • Out-of-province travel
  • Debt repayment or financial losses resulting from a project
  • Fundraising events
  • Central administration expenses exceeding 10% of the budget

Apply for the PRO Grant

If you have an idea for your school or want more information, please reach out to your school council or contact your Principal by Friday, November 20, 2026. 

The Waterloo Region District School Board’s PRO Grant Evaluation Committee will review all submissions and contact successful schools.

To be eligible for PRO Grant funding, projects must be completed and expenses incurred between September 8, 2026 and June 1, 2027.