Nearly 10 teachers from Lexington-Richland School District Five have received the Bright Ideas Grant provided by Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative (MCEC).

The grant recognizes teachers who demonstrate innovative ideas for classroom projects, marking the program’s 20^th anniversary.

The schools received nearly $6,500.

The recipients are Craig Andrysczyk (Oak Pointe Elementary), Jaime Chason (Dutch Fork High), Dr. Paul Duggan (Leaphart Elementary), Grace Fields (Dutch Fork High), Dr. Cherish Floyd (Irmo High), Heather Studer (Chapin Middle) and Carl Tilson (Dutch Fork).

“I am grateful to Mid-Carolina for providing this grant to teach our students about the important role birds play in our plants and communities,” Duggan said in a press release. “This hands-on learning experience will give students a deeper appreciation for local wildlife and how to support bird habitats.”

Leaphart Elementary School plans to use its grant to create a bird observatory, which will include bird feeders and pollinator plants. This will allow students to identify local bird species and learn about their behaviors and adaptations.

At Irmo High School, the grant will benefit the counseling department, focusing on first-generation college students.

“With the newly awarded funds, I am excited to offer even more personalized guidance and access to resources that will make a lasting impact on students' futures,” Floyd said. “This grant will enable me to take this initiative to the next level. First-generation students face unique challenges, and these funds will help us offer critical resources to ensure that they not only apply to and enroll in college but thrive throughout their academic journey. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative for their ongoing commitment to supporting educators as we prepare and inspire the next generation of leaders.”

These grants are an investment in the future of our area children, enhancing the quality of their education.