2026 Darrell & Coe Leta Logemann Staff Professional Development Grant
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Purpose:
Aims to recognize and support Bennington Public School staff through professional development. It honors the commitment of Darrell & Coe Leta Logemann to investing in the success of Bennington Public Schools. 

Description of Award:
An endowed fund of at least $20,000 will be allocated annually to support staff professional development within the District. This award offers selected recipients up to $2,500 each for use toward relevant college credits, certifications, or other professional development opportunities to further their careers. This is available to ALL staff to apply for. See eligibility criteria below. 

Rather than setting a fixed number of recipients, the selection committee will review applications and determine awards up to the total fund amount, ensuring broad and meaningful impact. 

Questions regarding this application can be directed to meganschafersman@bennps.org or 402.238.3044.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Employed at Bennington Public Schools or BPS Foundation for at least 3 years  (you must be in your 4th year of employment or more)
  • Open to ALL staff (teacher, secretary, bus driver, principal - any type of position!
  • Employee must have intentions of staying employed at Bennington Public Schools or BPS Foundation for 1 year after award is received
  • Enrollment in professional development course, class, certification or program within 1 year of application deadline
  • Employee is in good standing with the District
  • Must be able to demonstrate how the professional development will impact the applicant, students and District through a short essay (max 500 words)
  • Good character and strong work ethic in and out of classroom demonstrated through a short essay (max 500 words)

Selection Process: 

  • This Grant has a two-step review process.
  • First Review: Completed by your direct supervisor. They complete a 2 question rubric based on Employee Standing and Character/Work Ethic between Feb 1–28. 
  • Second Review: Completed by BPS Directors of Elementary & Secondary Education and BPSF Executive Director. They review all supervisors rubrics, applications and complete a separate 3 question rubric based on Impact of Professional Development, Character/Work Ethic and Clarity/Overall Quality of Essays. This is completed between Mar 1-30.
  • Recipients notified by April 1.

Please note: Applying does not guarantee funding. While all staff are encouraged to apply, applications are competitive and based on employment duration, employee standing with the District, character and work ethic, application quality, alignment with professional goals, District impact, and available funding. Final decisions are made by a selection committee. Being in good standing or receiving direct supervisor approval does not automatically result in funding.