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 Grant Provides up to $2500 for the students’ project. The project must be started by November 9, 2026 and completed by May 14, 2027.

BRIGHT IDEAS GRANT APPLICATION
OPENS AUGUST 24, 2026. DUE OCTOBER 2, 2026

Grant ApplicationPrincipal Approval Form
Bright Ideas

Sponsored By:

german american bank

2025 Recipients

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!

bright ideas drakes creek outdoor space art
Drakes Creek's Outdoor space is blooming with creativity! Students are hard at work to create and complete their amazing new patio and outdoor space.
bright ideas grant

Ryan Marie
Project: STEM, STEAM Kits for Innovation
Alvaton Elementary School

drakes students

Lydia Nelson, Grady Spears, Max Vanschenkhof
Project: Planting Positivity
Drakes Creek Middle School