Central Electric is continually seeking ways to improve the quality of life in the communities we serve.
That's why each year through the Bright Ideas Program, the Co-op awards approximately $15,000 to teachers to help bring creative and innovative projects into their classroom. Co-sponsored by the N.C. Association of Electric Cooperatives, the grants are available to teachers in area schools for projects that traditional school money does not cover. All of North Carolina's 26 electric Cooperatives participate in the program.
Each year, more than 2,000 applications are accepted from teachers in a variety of disciplines including music, art, history, reading, science, career-planning and information technology. Since the Bright Ideas program began in 1994, North Carolina's electric cooperatives have awarded over $14 million to teachers for 12,900 projects benefiting more than 2.7 million students.
The grant application window has closed for 2024. Applications will open for 2025 in April.
2024 Bright Ideas Grant Recipients
In 2024, the co-op awarded almost $15,000 to 11 educators, who were selected by an independent panel of judges. Over 2,700 students in our communities will be positively impacted as a result. Since 1994, North Carolina’s electric cooperatives have awarded more than $15 million to educators across the state.
Cynthia Bredenberg, Jordan Matthews High School, "Let's Read Together"
Kimberly Hilliard, Sandhills-Farm Life, "P3 Repeat!" (Primary Portable Playground)
Tracy Jones, Central Carolina Academy, "Using Podcasts to Share Ideas and Boost Self-confidence Through Research"
Laura Kinsman, McDeeds Creek Elementary, "Momentum Moves: Growing Stronger Together"
Cassie Lynch, Floyd L. Knight Child Center, "Adapted PE Magic Wall of Possibilities"
Jessica Maldonado, Southern Lee High School, "Molecular Mystery: Elevating Student Expertise in Biotechnology"
Wendi Pillars, Silk Hope School, "Igniting Curiosity, Inspiring Heroes: Empowering Young Explorers to Protect and Discover Their World"
Diana Rowland, Vass-Lakeview Elementary School, "Farmers Market Math"
Jessica Simmons, New Century Middle School, "Swivl Robot: A practical approach to analyzing music performances in the band room"
Ashleigh Stern, Johnsonville Elementary School, "Minis, Mazes, and More"
Rose Syroid, Horton Middle School, "Keep Pittsboro's Water Clean by Monitoring Roberson Creek"
