Aiken, SC, October 7, 2025

News Summary

Aiken County public school teachers can now apply for Classroom Innovation Grants from Public Education Partners. The grants, which offer up to $500, aim to foster student success through innovative classroom programs. The application deadline is set for October 31. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of Public Education Partners, which has been dedicated to improving educational quality. Additionally, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions has awarded $75,000 to educators in a related initiative, impacting over 17,500 students across multiple schools.

Aiken, SC – Classroom Innovation Grants Now Available for Educators

Aiken County public school teachers can now apply for the fall round of Classroom Innovation Grants from Public Education Partners (PEP), aimed at enhancing student success through innovative classroom programs or materials. Teachers can receive grants of up to $500, with the application deadline set for October 31, 2025.

Public Education Partners, a nonprofit organization established in 1995, focuses on improving educational quality for public school students in Aiken County, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. As the grants coordinator for PEP, John Hutchens emphasizes the crucial role of this funding in allowing teachers to bring their classroom ideas to fruition.

In a related effort, the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) has recently hosted its Innovative Teaching Mini Grant reception, awarding a total of $75,000 to 117 educators from the Central Savannah River Area and Orangeburg County. Since its inception in 2009, SRNS has contributed over $975,000 to support educators across various school types in Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, and Barnwell counties. Funding from SRNS Mini Grants is directed toward hands-on kits, project materials, and computer programs designed for educational purposes.

The selection of grant recipients involves a review by a panel of 50 judges from the Savannah River Site. The grants this year are expected to impact over 17,500 students across 68 schools, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning opportunities.

Additionally, A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School junior, Jordan Howard, has been nominated for the State Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, where he will address transportation needs within the school community. Furthermore, Merriwether Middle School Science teacher, Melissa Gojda, received the Nancy Smith Mann grant aimed at enhancing classroom creativity and innovation. Gojda’s plans include acquiring a 360-degree rotating camera for educational purposes.

Grant Program Details

• Eligibility: Aiken County public school teachers
• Grant Amount: Up to $500 per teacher
• Application Deadline: October 31, 2025

Impact of SRNS Grants

• Total Grants Awarded: $75,000
• Number of Recipients: 117 educators
• Total Impacted Students: Over 17,500
• Schools Benefited: 68 schools

About Public Education Partners

Founded in 1995, Public Education Partners focuses on advancing quality education for public school students in Aiken County. Its mission is to provide support and resources that empower teachers and positively impact student outcomes.

About Savannah River Nuclear Solutions

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions supports educators in various counties, contributing significant funding since 2009 to enhance educational programs. Their grants are particularly focused on promoting innovative approaches to learning and teaching.

Conclusion

The Classroom Innovation Grants offered by PEP, alongside the support from SRNS, highlight a community commitment to enhancing educational quality in Aiken County. Educators are encouraged to apply for these grants, which provide vital resources for nurturing innovative classroom environments.

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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Aiken County Unveils $800 Million Meta Data Center Investment
Aiken Honors Educators at Stars of Public Education Event

Additional Resources

• Public Education Partners Grant Applications – Post and Courier
• Wikipedia: Grants
• Georgia Southern Secures NSF Grant – Grice Connect
• Google Search: Classroom Innovation Grants
• SRNS Mini Grants – Post and Courier
• Google Scholar: Innovative Teaching Grants
• Local Student Teacher Selected for Grant – WRDW
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Education Grants
• North Augusta News – Augusta Chronicle
• Google News: Education grants in Aiken SC

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

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