What accommodations are available for applicants who need support completing the application?

We are happy to support you. Email the Fellowship Committee at crossroads.wc.ptso@gmail.com to request accommodations or alternative submission formats. We encourage applicants to reach out as early as possible.

Can I apply with multiple potential experiences or itineraries in mind?

Yes. Your application may include multiple experiences as long as they are all part of your planned summer fellowship. Please note, however, that funding cannot exceed the $5,000 grant limit.

What types of experiences or projects are appropriate for this grant?

Common project types include:

• Attending workshops, courses, or professional trainings

• Developing curriculum or instructional resources

• Participating in field experiences or site-based learning

Example Projects:

• Exploring biodiversity in the Peruvian Amazon to deepen environmental teaching for urban high school students.

• Visiting multiple Historically Black Colleges & Universities to expand students’ awareness of post-secondary pathways.

• Studying Buddhist temples across New England to integrate mindfulness and artistic practice into middle school art education.

• Participation in the Teacher Institute for Watershed Science and Conservation to spark student curiosity and stewardship.

Is AI usage allowed in preparing the application?

Yes. AI tools may be used as a support. However, applications should reflect your own experiences, insights, and voice as a member of the Wilbur Cross community. AI can help with organizing ideas or polishing language, but the passion, purpose, and perspective behind the proposal must come directly from you.

How detailed should the project timeline be?

Your timeline should outline the major phases of your summer experience—such as travel dates, workshops, site visits, research periods, or curriculum development blocks—with enough detail to show the committee that the project is feasible within the summer window. Because Cross operates on a traditional academic-year schedule, your timeline should clearly indicate when the summer experience occurs and how your learning will be brought back to Cross in the fall (e.g., department share-outs, PLC integration, or classroom implementation).

How closely must I follow the proposal as submitted? May I make changes later?

We understand that plans can evolve as opportunities shift—especially for summer programs, educational institutes, or travel. Small adjustments to dates, logistics, or specific learning activities are absolutely fine, as long as they stay true to the spirit and goals of your original proposal.

How specific do travel and lodging details need to be in the application?

You do not need to list exact hotels, flights, or reservations. However, you should provide enough detail to show the committee that you’ve researched realistic cost estimates, feasible itineraries, and appropriate locations that align with your project.

If my project requires an advance reservation, how should I proceed before fellowship decisions are announced?

Do not make any non-refundable reservations before receiving a final decision. If a program you hope to attend is likely to fill quickly, you may reach out to the organization to ask whether they offer:

• a hold without payment,

• a refundable deposit, or

• a waitlist option.

CrossRoads cannot reimburse deposits made before award notification, and we cannot provide guidance about your likelihood of selection. 

What expenses are allowable and not allowable under the fellowship?

Allowable expenses include costs directly tied to your summer learning experience, such as:

• Travel (airfare, train, bus, mileage)

• Lodging during the fellowship experience

• Workshop, course, or institute fees

• Museum or site-entry fees connected to your project

• Books, materials, or equipment essential to your learning plan

• Reasonable food expenses while traveling for project activities

Non-allowable expenses include:

• Any costs for family members or companions

• Vacation or recreational travel not tied to your project

• Personal purchases (clothing, gifts, souvenirs, etc.)

• Equipment unrelated to the learning goals

• Technology upgrades not required by the project

• Alcohol

The key principle: If the expense directly supports your learning plan and your students at Wilbur Cross, it is likely allowable.

Should I propose a budget that uses the full $5,000, or is it better to stay under budget?

You do not need to use the full amount. A strong budget prioritizes what you actually need to execute the project well.

Should I include the full projected cost of my fellowship even if it exceeds the maximum award amount?

Yes. If your project costs more than $5,000, you should include the full cost breakdown and note how you will cover the remaining expenses. This helps the committee understand the scope and feasibility of the project.

How should I account for possible cost increases (e.g., travel, materials) in my budget?

We encourage applicants to build in a modest buffer (typically 5–10%) for fluctuating travel or lodging costs, as long as it is reasonable and clearly justified. This shows the committee you’ve planned realistically and responsibly.

May family members, colleagues, or other companions participate in my fellowship travel or activities?

Yes, companions may join you, but none of their costs may be included in your budget. The fellowship may only cover expenses for you, the fellow. If companions come along, you must clearly distinguish your expenses from theirs when booking and budgeting.

Can childcare, dependent care, or related costs be included in the budget?

Unfortunately, childcare or dependent care expenses can’t be covered by the fellowship. While these costs must be managed personally, we understand they are an important part of planning and encourage you to choose a fellowship schedule that works well for you and your family.