The Bridge the Gap fund reduces barriers to education for students receiving special education and related services in Tacoma Public Schools.
Process:
Teachers, therapists, paraeducators, parents, students will submit a Bridge the Gap Request Form via the online application process found below.
A committee will review the requests immediately after the set deadline(s) this academic school year.
Grant awardees will be notified via email with a decision.
What needs to be addressed on the application?
- Estimated funds requested. Supporting documentation and links are helpful.
- A request statement. In this statement, please share with us what you will use this for, in what settings will it be used, how many students will it impact, for what purpose, frequency/duration of use, etc.
- What steps have you already taken to fulfill this need?
- Name and title/role of requestor: parent, paraeducator, teacher, etc.
- What school/classroom/program will be supported by this request?
- Contact information
Criteria:
- This fund must benefit students who access special education in Tacoma.
- If approved for the fund assistance, requestor must provide documentation of use within three months of receipt.
- Funds have to directly support student academic enrichment in and/or out of the classroom. Examples include, but are not limited to: toys, games, sensory materials, technology, social/emotional/behavioral assistance, field trips, curriculum supports.
- We will not support snacks for the classroom, income for a paraeducator, playground or sensory room equipment that is permanently installed, etc. Transportation costs may not be covered due to budget constraints.
The Tacoma Special Education PTA reserves the right to offer partial or full support in cases where we are able, when sufficient funds are available.
Our Bridge the Gap grant fund is currently closed for applications but will reopen in early October 2026.