Each year the Foundation for Belmont Education requests a proposal from the Belmont Public School administration for a listing of large-scale project and professional development opportunities whose funding cannot be accommodated through the school budget. Special Initiatives typically include small capital projects, equipment purchases, facility improvements, and larger-scale curriculum programs. The Foundation's Program Committee carefully considers the proposals and makes recommendations consistent with available resources, project significance, and an assessment of widespread impact across the entire student body.

At its May 2010 meeting, the Foundation awarded $17,400 in Special Initiatives for the upcoming school year. The Special Initiatives awarded fall into three categories as designated by the Superintendent:

1. Initiatives to Advance the 18 Month Improvement Strategy

• Response to Intervention materials for literacy program ($1,000)
• Mathematics enrichment program modules for elementary classrooms ($3,000)
• Mentor texts for elementary writing program ($2,000)
• Edline for Chenery ($3,400)

2. Initiative to Support the Ongoing Community Dialogue ($3,000)

• FBE funding will help to support the second Community Dialogue in Spring, 2011.

3. Initiative to Provide Training for a New Internal Professional Development Strategy ($5,000)

• FBE funding will provide training for the Leadership Council as it implements an innovative professional development program within the school system over the 2010-11 school year, a major strategic goal.