School Bus Funding from the AFCC Access Fund

AFCC School Bus funds will provide grants up to  $250 to help schools with the transportation costs of student cultural field trips. The field trips must be in the arts, sciences, or humanities. Examples: art and science museums; historic sites; and music, theater, and dance performances.

Eligibility

• Any Barnstable County school (public, charter, parochial, or independent) serving grades K-12 can apply.
• The field trips must be focused in the arts, but trips that combine science or humanities with the arts will also be considered. 
• Types of field trips that DO NOT qualify for funding are trips to sporting events, amusement parks, or other similar outings.

FAQS

When is the application deadline?

There is no deadline, but applications must be in at least 30 days prior to the trip. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Grants will be awarded until funds run out.  Our goal is to spread the funding equitably among all Cape schools that apply.

Can an independent or faith-based school apply?

Yes, all Barnstable County schools serving grades K-12 are eligible to apply.

Someone else in my school already received a grant for this school year. Can I apply too?

Yes, the AFCC may award more than one bus grant to the same school and/or teacher.  However, the AFCC reserves the right to approve or deny application in order to distribute the funding equitably  so all schools may benefit. 

What types of trips do no qualify for funding?

Types of trips that DO NOT qualify for funding are trips to sporting events, amusement parks, and outdoor activities such as class beach trips. Field trips to performances put on by students are not eligible, as the goal of the program is to provide students with a professional cultural experience.  The trip must meet the mission of providing access to arts and culture for all students.

Can we get a grant to travel to a destination outside of Massachusetts? 

Yes. 

What is the maximum amount of money we can ask for?

$350.

We want to go on more than one field trip in this school year. Can we apply for another grant?

Yes, however  you should also research funding through Mass Cultural Council as well as your local cultural council for funding for additional field trips.

How will we know that the AFCC has received our application?

Once you have successfully submitted your online application, a confirmation email will be sent.

How will we know if our application was approved or not?

Within three weeks of submitting your application, you will receive an email from the AFCC telling you whether or not your application has been approved. Be sure your email account is set to allow messages from jwake@artsfoundation.org.  All funding decisions are final.

How do we get the money?

A check will be made out to the school and will include the teacher and department along with a note stating that funds are restricted for the specific field trip.  The check will go out USPS. Applicant contact will be notified check has been sent. It is up to the applicant to follow through on receipt of funding.

Who arranges for the bus and pays the bus company?

You or your school are responsible for making all bus arrangements and payments.  The AFCC is not liable for school bus arrangements or contractual services made between the bus company and school/teacher.