Overview

The Parents Reaching Out (PRO) Grants provides funding for school boards to work with their Parent Involvement Committee and/or school councils to support projects and initiatives which remove barriers at the local level that prevent parents from participating and engaging fully in their children’s learning and educational progress.

PRO Grant projects support the diversity of parent needs and parent communities at the local level through an equity and inclusion lens.

Ministry Criteria

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

  • Addressing social inclusion and racism specifically anti-Asian, anti-Black, and anti-Indigenous racism and other prejudices toward racialized and marginalized groups
  • Creating a safe and welcoming environment
  • Demonstrating respect for parents as valued partners within the education system regarding decisions about their child’s education
  • Enhancing communication with teachers
  • Informing parents about the expectations of the Ontario Curriculum and supporting resources.

The projects must be completed and expenses incurred between September 3, 2025, and June 1, 2026. 

What Costs Are Not Eligible? 

PRO Grant funding cannot be used for: 

  • Activities that occurred before September 3, 2025 
  • Payment to school board staff or volunteers (e.g., salaries, honoraria, or 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 28, 2025. 

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 3, 2025 and June 1, 2026.