Idaho National Laboratory announces availability of 2009 grants for K-12 programs

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Idaho National Laboratory http://www.inl.gov is announcing two grant programs for 2009 in support of excellence and innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education.

The 2009 INL STEM Mini Grant provides funds to enhance public and private elementary, middle school and high school STEM programs. Teachers can apply for up to $2,000 to fund technology or lab equipment, material for special projects or professional development. This grant cycle has $70,000 available statewide for teachers.

The 2009 INL Science Laboratory Grant Program is a new offering this year designed to provide funding for a new science lab program or project or to update and enhance existing equipment or programs specifically in the areas of physical science or chemistry. Two grants will be awarded in the amount of $10,000 each, and an individual school is eligible for only one grant each year.

Grant applications are available at http://www.inl.gov/k-12/. Grant applications must be received by March 13, 2009. Applications will be evaluated by a panel of judges based on specific criteria. Teachers are required to provide information on how learning objectives and curriculum concepts will be enhanced and how the project or program will improve student interest and achievement. Grants will be announced in April 2009.

Since 2005, INL has awarded $210,000 to more than 120 teachers across Idaho. Funding for the INL Mini Grants comes from Battelle Energy Alliance, which operates INL for the U.S. Department of Energy.

NEWS MEDIA CONTACTS:
Marilyn Whitney, (208) 334-9572, [email protected]