CEAC is a group of volunteers who care about lifelong learning and are willing to provide input regarding quality programs for children, youth and adults. Minnesota Statute requires Community Education Advisory Councils to meet at least four times per year.  Rochester Public Schools – Community Education Advisory Council (CEAC) meets monthly from October through May, typically at Northrop Community Education Center.

CEAC members represent the views of a variety of constituencies (e.g., students, parents, senior adults, service organizations, businesses) as well as their individual experiences in the community. One key role of CEAC is to review Learning Project Mini-Grant applications from local students, clubs, and organizations. Members also commit to becoming knowledgeable about Community Education programs and services, sometimes auditing classes for the purpose of learning about programs and providing feedback to program coordinators.    

On an annual basis, CEAC evaluates its representation and seeks additional members where more representation is needed. To become involved, email our office to request a membership application. 

The RPS Community Education Advisory Council offers mini-grants to support new, youth-involved learning projects by student clubs and community non-profits, for up to $1,500 per project, with a possible second-year renewal.

Council funds are to be used for projects that support learning experiences beyond the traditional school day. We value learners of all ages, ethnicities, genders, sexualities, abilities, and economic experiences and welcome proposals that serve various audiences. 

To be considered, your proposal must meet a few basic requirements:

• Meets a unique and significant learning need within the RPS community

• Involves youth in design and/or delivery

• Serves learners outside of schoolday classes

• Identifies how success will be measured

Keep these things in mind as well:

• The requesting organization must qualify as non-profit (includes RPS schools and student clubs.

• Funds are to be used for an educational project and not generally for tangible goods or ongoing operational expenses. A request for funding of tangible goods or operational expenses must show how the expense specifically supports the proposed educational project.

• Funds are generally not to be used for field trips, salaries, travel expenses or food. However, a case may be made for one or more of these when they essential for the project.

Have a question on the process, or trouble submitting the application? Please contact our office via email or 507-328-4000.