The Mary Ellen Thompson Music Fund was established by her daughters Jackie, Liz and Daphne to honor their mothers love for music.
“Our Mother had a deep understanding of the stresses experienced by elementary music educators and believed strongly in music education at that level, knowing what that could mean for children’s futures. She believed music made children better listeners, better learners, and allowed them to express themselves creatively through their personal expression and joy of music.”
The Mary Ellen Thompson Music Fund grant round deadline for applications is the 2nd Monday of January.
If you have any questions contact the Foundation office at fpsfound@fargo.k12.nd.us or call 701.446.1041.
About the Fund
The fund supports programs and opportunities that enrich elementary music education throughout Fargo Public Schools.
Eligibility and General Guidelines
- Applicants must be Fargo Public Schools employees, including teachers, staff, or administrators who teach or incorporate music into elementary education.
- Projects may include classroom music activities, visiting musicians, equipment, and innovative music experiences.
- Applicants must consult with their principal or building administrator to ensure projects are not eligible for regular school funding or duplicating existing resources.
- Equipment purchased becomes District property and remains at the originating school. Technology purchases require District Technology Department approval before applying.
- Transportation expenses may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- There is no annual limit on the number of grants awarded to a school or program.
- Grant applications are public information and may be shared with donors.
Funding Priorities
Priority consideration will be given to projects that:
- Enrich student learning through creative and innovative music education experiences.
- Demonstrate meaningful educational impact and potential for continued use.
- Encourage collaboration, shared resources, or matching funds.
- Align with Fargo Public Schools Strategic Plan.
Funding Restrictions
Grants generally will not fund:
- Expenses covered by regular District, state, or federal funding.
- Projects without a clear educational purpose or responsible use of funds.
- Programs funded for three consecutive years, although exceptions may be considered by the Grant Committee.
- Furniture, ball chairs, carpeting, lunches, T-shirts, salaries, or gift cards.
Application and Review Process
- Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed annually and are due the second Monday of January. Approved funding becomes available the following month.
- Review: The Foundation Grant Committee reviews applications and makes final funding decisions. Additional information may be requested.
- Reporting: Grant recipients must submit a final evaluation report outlining project outcomes and student impact. Email reminders will be provided.
Recognition
The Fargo Public Schools Development Foundation must be acknowledged in any media, publications, or public communications related to funded projects.
