($150,000 in uncommitted funds remain as of March 1, 2026)

      The Castle Foundation was a pioneer in progressive kindergartens during the 19th and 20th centuries. Since the start of public kindergartens, strongly supported by the Castle Foundation in the mid-20th century, our trustees have focused more on preschools and support for infant-toddler programs.

      In 2026, we invite proposals that aim to improve teaching and learning in public, private, and charter kindergartens. The small, targeted grants are intended to enrich the kindergarten experience for children and teachers in families, primarily focusing on the needs and strengths of rural and neighboring island communities.

      The typical grant size is $10,000 to $25,000. The total is budgeted for 7 successful applications in 2026. We view this as a modest pilot project to determine need and effectiveness in Hawaii’s rural and neighbor island kindergarten education. Applications, which should be discussed with the Foundation’s director, Al Castle, welcome applications from public, private, and charter elementary schools, as well as nonprofit organizations partnering with kindergarten classrooms.

      Proposals should address one or more of the following:

• Kindergarten transition involving preschool coordination;
• ohana engagement for incoming kindergarten families;
• and summer “k-readiness” activities.
  In addition, we are interested in enhancements to play-based learning, Aina-based/outdoor learning materials, supplements to kindergarten libraries, and development of mentally appropriate classroom supplies such as art supplies, blocks, or manipulatives.
  Lastly, we wish to strengthen the professional development of kindergarten teachers through travel to workshops for rural and neighbor island teachers, tuition and fees for early learning institutes, and continuing education through summer institutes.

This kindergarten initiative may not support ongoing personnel and operating costs, or major capital projects.

      Complete applications, typically 3-4 pages, will be signed by the principal and include a project summary, a statement of need, a description of proposed activities and expected outcomes, a budget, a timeline, and the applicant’s plan for measuring success.
A short final report, including how funds were spent and the outcomes achieved, should be submitted to the Castle Foundation within a year of receiving the micro-grant.

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The remaining due dates for 2026 are May 5 and September 7.
Trustee meeting dates are indicated on the website.