Bringing Quality PE to Every Student

Applications are submitted through the Equity Awards page. To get started:

• Visit the Equity Awards page and download the instructions document explaining the application process.
• Review all eligibility requirements and funding categories.
• Complete and submit the online application form before the deadline.

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on February 25th, 2026.

There are two award categories:

• Individual Award — A single teacher or physical activity provider can apply for one SPARK program, which includes curriculum, professional development, and equipment.
• Organization Award — Organizations can apply for curriculum, professional development, and equipment for multiple teachers, providers, or sites within their organization.

The School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences at San Diego State University awards funding to individuals and organizations serving students and youth in low-income and underserved communities. Eligible applicants include:

• Individual PE teachers from both public and private schools
• Public and private school districts
• Organizations that provide physical activity for children
• Individuals or organizations who received a SPARK Equity Award the previous year

The goal is to fund multiple applicants in each category to support as many youth and programs as possible. Applications are evaluated based on:

• Needs of the district, organization, and the students and community served
• Ability to effectively implement the SPARK program
• Number of students and youth who will be directly impacted by the grant
• The amount of money requested per student served

The foundation has a total of $140,000 to distribute to awardees.

• Individual applicants select a resource bundle for the program of their choice — the value is predetermined and no specific dollar amount is requested.
• Organization applicants have no maximum dollar amount, but are encouraged to keep in mind that the goal is to support as many students and youth as possible when determining their request.

No — only one application is permitted per individual or organization. Please coordinate with others in your organization to confirm who will submit the application.

A review team with expertise in SPARK programs, childhood physical activity, and health equity will evaluate applications on eligibility, documentation of need, and responses to the application questions.

SPARK Equity Awards will be announced by April 6, 2026.

All applicants will be notified by email from Dr. Matthew Mahar, Director of the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences at San Diego State University, by end of day on April 6, 2026. A list of awardees will also be posted on the SPARK Equity Awards page and shared via social media — follow @SPARKPhysEd.

Award recipients do not receive a check or cash payment. The award covers "goods and services" — all SPARK curriculum, professional development, and equipment will be processed and paid for directly by the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences at San Diego State University.

There are several ways to learn more and ask questions:

• Read the instructions document, available for download on this page.
• Attend our live informational webinar on December 10th, 2025, 7:00–8:00 pm EST / 4:00–5:00 pm PST.
• Watch the webinar recording, which will be posted on this page after the live event.

Yes. SPARK Equity Award recipients are asked to complete a short survey after using the SPARK materials. Recipients are also encouraged to share their program successes on social media using the hashtag #SPARKequityawards.