For more than 30 years, North Carolina's electric cooperatives have helped light up learning in K-12 classrooms across the state through the Bright Ideas education grant program. Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative has proudly participated by awarding grants to Hatteras Island teachers with innovative ideas for creative learning projects.

The grant cycle opens each year on April 1 and runs through mid-September. CHEC awards two grants yearly, each worth up to $1,500. Applications are accepted from teachers in a variety of disciplines, including music, art, history, reading, science, technology, math and engineering. Educators may apply as individuals or as a team.

To be considered for a grant, the proposed project must meet the following criteria:

• Be reviewed and approved by your principal or supervisor
• Directly involve and provide ongoing benefits to students
• Seek to achieve clearly defined goals and learning objectives
• Use innovative and creative teaching methods
• Feature measurable results that can be evaluated upon completion.
• Funding cannot be used for salaries or professional development.

Interested teachers can find more grant information, tips for applying and the online application at NCBrightIdeas.com.