Indiana Michigan Power has announced nearly $40,000 in grants for FIRST Robotics programs and teachers around its service area. Spokesperson Schnee Garrett tells WSJM News 15 Michigan robotics programs will benefit with the awards that go as high as $6,000. She says as an electric utility, I&M wants to encourage programs like FIRST Robotics.
“We have a special interest, especially in science, mathematics, technology, electrical safety, and the balanced study of energy and the environment,” Garrett said. “We’re always looking to support and give back to programs that promote STEM education.”
I&M this week also announced three Teacher Vision grants of up to $500 for projects that have an academic focus and a goal to improve student achievement. They’re going to teachers in Cassopolis, Three Oaks, and Bridgman.
FIRST Robotics grants went to:
• S.M.A.R.T. Team, Niles
• Buchanan Community Schools Megahurtz Robotics Team
• St. Joseph High School, Average Joes Team
• Berrien Springs High School, GreengineerZ Team
• Berrien Springs Middle School, Rock MonsterZ Team
• Three Rivers High School, Robocats team
• Lakeshore High School, Stevensville, Team Lance-A-Bot
• Lakeshore Middle School, Stevensville, Lanceanators Team
• Roosevelt Elementary School, Stevensville, Team Lego Lancers
• Stewart Elementary School, Stevensville, Team Lance-A-Bot and Team Lance-A-
• Hollywood Elementary School, Stevensville, Hexagon Squad
• Niles High School, Niles Nordic Knights Team
Teacher Vision grants went to:
• Cara Rumer, Mars Middle School, Cassopolis, for equipment in special education classroom.
• Patrick Bertrand, River Valley Schools, Three Oaks, for students to participate in Science Olympiad.
• Lauren Mott, FC Reed Middle School, Bridgman, for two treadmills to help students exercise or train for competition.