WHEELING — In partnership with Expand Energy, the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley recently awarded more than $20,500 in grants to local educators to support and uplift innovative teaching in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

The 23 recipients of the Expand Energy grants teach at various schools across Ohio, Marshall and Brooke counties and bring students creative STEM education experiences that might not typically fit into school budgets.

“From microscopes to hydroponic grow kits, 3D printers and drones, Expand is proud to be able to support our local teachers in ensuring that they have the right tools to enhance classroom learning,” said Expand Energy Community Affairs Manager Stephanie Paluda.

From experiments to engineering challenges to technology-based learning, the projects funded by the grant focus on hands-on education. The grants went up to $1,000 and were based on student impact, originality and classroom integration.

The CFOV selected its 2025 recipients after a competitive application process. Grantees will be required to report on the outcomes of their projects to ensure transparency and allow for successful teaching strategies to be recreated by others.

“STEM education is crucial for preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s workforce,” said CFOV Executive Director Susie Nelson. “We’re grateful for the dedication and creativity of our region’s educators, and we’re proud to help bring their innovative ideas to life through this grant program.”

Since the program was launched in 2018, the CFOV has awarded more than $80,000 to local schools and educators teaching STEM lessons to students across the Ohio Valley.