In its continuing support of education, Mohave Electric Cooperative has awarded the 2019 $5K Education Grant to Wendy Hardy of Desert Valley School in Bullhead City.
With the aid of the renewable energy grant, Hardy plans to bring an inquiry-based, engaging, and interactive curriculum designed by the National Energy Education Department into the school.
“MEC strongly believes in supporting the communities it serves and helping our educators is certainly a worthwhile endeavor,” said Rick Campos, COO at MEC. “Wendy turned in a fabulous proposal and we’re happy to award her the grant money.”
The curriculum will take students through a number of steps, including the science of energy, sources of energy, efficiency and conservation, synthesis and reinforcement, and evaluation.
“It’s exciting to bring a program like this to our students,” Hardy said. “The curriculum correlates with the state and common core standards.”
The grant will allow for the purchase of various kits, which include several solar ovens and cardboard solar houses. Activities will allow students an opportunity to explore renewable energy across all subject areas: science, mathematics, technology, engineering, social studies, language arts, and creative arts.
“Our district has worked closely with Mohave Electric over the years,” said Dr. Carolyn Steward, Bullhead City Elementary School District superintendent. “We appreciate its outstanding community support and the support of our educational programs.”
“Arizona schools always have tight budgets,” she said. “The MEC grant should inspire students in STEAM programs (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) as they continue their education throughout the district in middle and junior high schools.”
Campos said six applications were received, establishing a new high for this grant. Only educators at schools within the MEC service territory are eligible to apply.
Educators interested in applying for the grant in 2020 can look for the announcement in February or March on the MEC website, Facebook by searching mohaveelectriccoop, and in the Currents newsletter.
For other MEC programs, such as the $200 Classroom Grants, visit the Mohave Electric website.