Last updated Spring 2026
Finding the right funding source can be the key to bringing The Zones of Regulation® into schools and districts. The good news is that there are several federal, state, and local programs that support social-emotional learning, school mental health, and staff professional development. Because The Zones of Regulation aligns with multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) frameworks and supports social, emotional, and behavioral development, schools often find that it fits well within existing funding priorities.
Why The Zones of Regulation Qualifies
Schools choose The Zones because it strengthens regulation, engagement, and learning. These areas are woven into the goals of many funding streams. The curriculum supports prevention and early intervention, universal Tier 1 instruction, Tier 2 small-group work, and IEP goals. Districts have used both formula funds and competitive grants to purchase the curriculum, train staff, and launch multi-year implementation plans.
Federal Funding Sources
- IDEA, Part B: A consistent and reliable source, IDEA supports special education programs and services. Many IEP teams use The Zones to help learners build emotional awareness, coping strategies, and self-regulation across general and special education settings.
- Title I, Part A: Designed to support students in high-poverty schools, Title I funds can be used for SEL programs that improve academic engagement and support whole-child needs. Schools often use this funding to implement The Zones as a Tier 1 universal support.
- Title II, Part A: Focuses on professional development for teachers, school counselors, and instructional leaders. Districts commonly use Title II funds to train staff on The Zones framework and strengthen their capacity to support regulation and mental health.
- Title IV, Part A: Supports well-rounded education, safe and healthy schools, and effective use of technology. This funding source is often used to purchase SEL curriculum, mental health resources, and digital tools.
- Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP): Designed for rural and small schools. Many districts use these funds to implement SEL and behavior supports that meet the needs of small and geographically dispersed student populations.
- Charter Schools Program (CSP):Â CSP continues to receive strong federal support. The U.S. Department of Education awarded a record level of CSP funding in 2025. Charter schools can use these funds to launch or expand SEL programs, including The Zones, as part of their start-up or growth plans.
Mental Health and Innovation Grants
Several federal programs focus on building school mental health capacity. These include the School-Based Mental Health Services Grants and the Mental Health Service Professional Demonstration Grants. Districts use these funds to increase school counselor and mental health staffing and to adopt evidence-aligned tools and curriculum that support regulation and well-being.
The Education Innovation and Research (EIR) program is another option. Some cycles include priorities related to SEL, equity, early childhood, and digital learning. Large districts often use EIR grants to fund multi-year implementation or research partnerships.
Project AWARE, administered through SAMHSA, continues to support states and districts focused on mental health literacy, prevention, and school-based intervention. The Zones often fits as a universal and early intervention component within these projects.
State and Local Opportunities
Many states now offer SEL or mental health grants aligned with MTSS, PBIS, and whole-child frameworks. These programs often support curriculum adoption, coaching, and professional development. Local opportunities can include education foundations, school district foundations, parent-teacher organizations, service clubs, regional cooperatives, and community partners. Districts often braid several small sources together to support multi-year SEL implementation.
Finding Current Opportunities
For up-to-date funding notices, schools can check:
- Grants.gov lists formula funding and discretionary grant opportunities from 26 federal agencies.
- Forecast of Funding is a database of programs and competitions from the Department of Education.
- Greenlights Grant Initiative offers webinars and tutorials for how to access federal grants, including lists of grant opportunities and grant writing support.
Support for your Proposal
If your school or district is preparing a proposal, our team can help. We provide sample grant language, research summaries, and implementation guidance that can strengthen your application. Here is sample grant language to get you started. For questions or additional support, contact us at research@zonesofregulation.com.
