Do you have an idea for an innovative classroom project? North Carolina’s electric cooperatives, including Your Co-op, are now accepting applications for Bright Ideas education grants for the 2018-19 school year. Teachers in K-12 classrooms with creative ideas for hands-on learning projects are encouraged to apply for a grant of up to $3000.

As a member-owned cooperative, Your Co-op is committed to supporting local communities, and last year, Wake Electric awarded $50,000 in Bright Ideas funding to local teachers. Since 1994, educators statewide have received more than $11.5 million in Bright Ideas grant funding, and well over 2.2 million North Carolina students have participated in approximately 11,000 Bright Ideas projects.

Grant applications will be accepted beginning Sunday, April 1 through Sept. 19. It could pay to apply early: all teachers who submit their applications by the early bird deadline of Wednesday, Aug. 15 will be entered into a drawing for one of five $100 Visa gift cards.

Teachers at qualifying schools can apply individually or as a team, and grants are available for all subjects. To apply, or for more information about the Bright Ideas grant program, visit www.NCBrightIdeas.com or www.wemc.com.