The Bright Ideas Grants (BIG) program promotes excellence and creativity through initiatives and programs that excite young minds. The students decide what is missing, what is needed at their school and create the plan to execute the project. The goal is to spark academic success and develop strong culture and community within schools. These student-generated ideas, complete with student decisions on the project budget and project implementation, showcase our district’s commitment to leadership and innovation.
The Bright Ideas Grant Recipients have been announced and projects are underway. The recipients are:
Ryan Marie, a 3rd Grader at Alvaton Elementary School.
Her project is STEM and STEAM Kits for Innovation
and
Max Vanschenkhof, Grady Spears, Lydia Nelson, 8th graders at Drakes Creek Middle School.
Their project is titled “Planting Positivity,” and will enhance and improve the outdoor space at their school with planters, native plants and spaces for conversation and community.
Congratulations to our 2025 Recipients! Projects will be completed in May 2026 and celebrated and showcased in the fall of 2026!
The Bright Ideas Grants (BIG) program promotes excellence and creativity through initiatives and programs that excite young minds. The students decide what is missing, what is needed at their school and create the plan to execute the project. The goal is to spark academic success and develop strong culture and community within schools. These student-generated ideas, complete with student decisions on the project budget and project implementation, showcase our district’s commitment to leadership and innovation.
Watch for 2026 Applications to open in September 2026!
Ryan Marie
Project: STEM, STEAM Kits for Innovation
Alvaton Elementary School
Lydia Nelson, Grady Spears, Max Vanschenkhof
Project: Planting Positivity
Drakes Creek Middle School