Programming
The Public School Partnership offers a range of innovative programs designed to strengthen collaboration between App State’s Reich College of Education and public schools. Rooted in engagement and educational excellence, our programming supports educators, enhances student learning, and fosters meaningful partnerships across our region. Explore the sections below to learn more about the specific initiatives we offer.
Mini-Grants
Mini-grants support collaborative initiatives between university faculty and P–12 educators. These grants support innovative projects that enhance student learning, promote educator development, and bridge the gap between educational theory and classroom practice.
- Grant Amounts: Typically range from $500 to $1,000.
- Eligible Expenses: May include classroom materials/resources, substitute pay, registration fees, and faculty stipends. Funds must supplement, not supplant.
- Ineligible Expenses: Funds cannot be used for field trips.
The application for the 2025-26 academic year will be released in September 2025.
Mountaineer Readers
The Mountaineer Readers program has been paused for the current academic year. We appreciate the continued support and collaboration from our partner schools and App State Athletics. Your enthusiasm and dedication have been instrumental in the program’s success, and we look forward to creating new opportunities to inspire young readers together. Stay tuned for information about the new and improved Mountaineer Readers program.
National Board Support
Appalachian State University has been recognized for the ninth consecutive year as the national leader for the number of alumni who are National Board Certified Teachers.
The Public School Partnership hosts National Board Support sessions to assist App State alumni and educators from the PSP obtain national board certification. This effort is a joint effort with the NWRESA.
Professional Development
The Public School Partnership provides professional development for full PSP members. Please complete and submit this form to request professional development.
Requests must be submitted at least one month in advance. Please note that professional development requests cannot be guaranteed, but the PSP will make every effort to fulfill requests as they are received.
Innovation Expo
The Innovation Expo is an annual event that showcases and celebrates innovative practices and ideas that have been implemented by educators within the Public School Partnership.
The Expo serves as a platform to:
- Identify innovative educational strategies and solutions developed across our partner schools.
- Elevate exemplary work by providing a stage for educators to share their successful initiatives.
- Collaborate by bringing together educators, administrators, and stakeholders to exchange ideas and foster partnerships.
- Scale effective practices by encouraging their adaptation and implementation in other contexts.
Mountaineer Explorers Day
The Reich College of Education, along with partners from across the university, hosts an annual Mountaineer Explorers Day for 3rd-5th grade classrooms. Designed to spark curiosity and inspire a love for learning, the field trip day includes interactive activities, hands-on learning stations, and opportunities to explore a college campus. Students leave with a greater understanding of what it means to be a learner, a leader, and one day a Mountaineer.
Due to minors-on-campus requirements, field trips for elementary students cannot be accommodated outside of the Mountaineer Explorers Day. Middle schools that are members of GEAR UP can request field trips by contacting their GEAR UP liaison. Campus visits for high school students are handled through the App State admissions office.
Facility Use
As part of its membership, the Public School Partnership welcomes its full members to request spaces on the Appalachian State University Boone and Hickory campuses for meetings, retreats, workshops, and other educational activities.