At Lumbee River EMC, we are proud to support educators who are shaping the next generation through creativity, dedication, and care. Through our Bright Ideas Grant program, local teachers are bringing learning to life in ways that truly make a difference.

At Prospect Elementary, Media Coordinator Denise Douglas is using her Bright Ideas grant to inspire a love of reading. Through the Wildcat Scholars program, students read books and take Accelerated Reader quizzes to earn points and rewards. Students can earn golden coins for a book vending machine, snack packs and gift cards from local businesses. Those who reach the highest level will celebrate with a movie party at the end of the school year. This program has created excitement around reading and encouraged students to stay engaged and keep learning.

Sandra Lopez is also making an impact through her Multilingual Program Initiative. With support from the Bright Ideas grant, she will host the 4th Annual STEAM Day at the School of Education at UNC Pembroke. Students and their families will take part in hands-on activities that teach the language of STEAM through real-world learning. One activity includes using Ozobots to introduce coding in a fun and interactive way. This experience helps build confidence and opens new opportunities for multilingual learners.

These projects are great examples of how Bright Ideas Grants support teachers and students across our community. By investing in education, we are helping create opportunities for students to grow and succeed.

On this Teacher Appreciation Day, we thank all educators for the important role they play in shaping the future of our communities.