One of the most rewarding times of the year for Roanoke Cooperative (RC) is presenting award checks to this year's Bright Ideas grant winners. The teacher awards highlight the dedication and creativity of local educators. Recipients for the 2023/2024 school year are:
- Stacy Unger of Central Middle in Gates County
- Roger Bowen of Bertie Middle in Bertie County
- Laura Dickerson of Buckland Elementary in Gates County
- Kimberly M. Kirby of Ridgecroft School in Hertford County
“These educators have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their students,” said Basil Williams, Sr. Manager of Member Services, Communications & Public Relations. “It is always exciting to visit Bright Ideas winners in person to present grant money. We see passion and care firsthand in the classroom through the innovative projects these teachers bring to life with their students.”
Overview of the Grant Program:
The Bright Ideas education grant program, offered by RC, provides teachers with the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $2,000. This initiative aims to bring creative learning projects to life and enhance educational experiences for students in Bertie, Chowan, Gates, Halifax, Hertford, Northampton, and Perquimans counties. The grants cover a wide range of curriculum areas, including art, history, math, reading, science, and technology.
Applying for the Grant:
Teachers interested in applying for the Bright Ideas grant can submit their applications online at www.ncbrightideas.com each year beginning April 1. Stay tuned for information about the upcoming grant cycle. Educators, whether working individually or as a team, are encouraged to provide a detailed proposal including a budget, project goals, implementation plan, and a description of how the project will engage students and enhance their success.
Impacts of Bright Ideas Grants:
Since its inception in 1994, RC's Bright Ideas grant program has awarded over 100 grants, totaling $250,000. The program has contributed significantly to educational innovation, with educators across North Carolina receiving over $15 million in grant funding. More than 3.5 million students have participated in 14,200 projects funded by Bright Ideas grants, demonstrating the program's far-reaching impact on the state's educational landscape.