With growing uncertainty around U.S. federal education budgets, many schools are re-evaluating how to fund social emotional learning (SEL) programs like The Zones of Regulation. The good news: there are still creative and sustainable pathways to keep SEL efforts moving forward here in the United States.
Below are 7 practical strategies to help you explore new funding opportunities and strengthen the case for continued investment in The Zones of Regulation.
1. Explore State Department of Education Resources
Most state education departments maintain a grants or funding section on their website that lists available funding opportunities. Some of these grants are specifically designed for SEL, while others, such as broader education or mental health funding, can also be applied to SEL programs. Regularly checking these resources will ensure that you stay informed about potential funding streams.
2. Use Strategic Keywords in Funding Searches
Finding the right funding sources requires precise online searches. Using targeted keywords like “SEL funding,” “state grants for SEL,” “education grants,” “mental health education funding,” and “school climate funding”, along with your state’s name, can help narrow your search to the most relevant opportunities. The more specific your search terms, the more likely you are to uncover applicable grants and funding sources.
3. Subscribe to Grant and Education Newsletters
Many educational organizations, foundations, and state departments distribute newsletters with updates on available grants and funding opportunities. Subscribing to these newsletters keeps you ahead of application deadlines and provides insights into new or emerging funding sources.
4. Network with Other Educators and Stakeholders
Connecting with other educators, administrators, and grant professionals can provide valuable insights into funding opportunities. Attending state education conferences, joining professional networks, and participating in SEL-related forums can lead to practical tips, shared experiences, and funding sources you may not have found on your own.
5. Start Small, Think Big
Rather than seeking large-scale funding from the outset, consider starting with a pilot program in a single school or a specific grade level. This phased approach allows for manageable implementation and data collection. Demonstrating measurable outcomes from a small-scale initiative can strengthen your case when applying for larger grants, increasing the likelihood of securing funding for expanded programming.
6. Use Remaining ESSER Funds Before 2026 Deadline
Schools now have until March 2026 to spend any remaining ESSER funds, after the federal government reversed the earlier freeze. These funds are a great fit for SEL programs like The Zones of Regulation Digital Curriculum and Training. Check with your district’s finance team to see if any remaining ESSER funds can be used for SEL curriculum, training, or implementation support.
CORRECTION: Shortly after the original publishing of this post, the ESSER Funds deadline was extended through 2026. Read our update.
7. Investing in Student Well-Being for Long-Term Impact
With the right approach, SEL programs can continue to grow, creating stronger, healthier learning environments where all students can thrive. Let’s invest in the well-being of our students, because the benefits of The Zones of Regulation extend far beyond the classroom.
