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CASSOPOLIS — An annual grant supporting local schools is now accepting applications.

Midwest Energy and Communications is now accepting applications for the 2020-21 Strengthening Schools Grant program. In January, 33 grants totaling $30,000 were awarded to 27 public schools across the co-op service territory. Grants are funded with partnership dollars from Wolverine Power Cooperative, MEC’s power supplier.

Any teacher, administrator or school official in a public elementary, middle or high school serving students in the MEC service territory may apply for a grant of up to $2,500 to support classroom needs and special projects, technology or academic clubs and organizations. School districts may be awarded multiple grants, not to exceed a total of $5,000 during the annual award cycle.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s business and community leaders, and as an active member of the greater community we want to support students, teachers and schools,” said Patty Nowlin, vice president of corporate communications. “Public schools and teachers are faced with increasingly stringent requirements as they tackle the diverse needs and challenges of today’s students and families, and we are excited to give our educators opportunities to reach their students in new and exciting ways.”

Applications are due Oct. 19 and funds will be awarded in January 2021. Applications are evaluated and funding decisions made by a committee of MEC customers without knowledge of the school or district.

More information and applications are available online at TeamMidwest.com/grants.