FirstEnergy Corp. is offering education grants for creative classroom projects involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) planned for the 2015-2016 school year in its service territories.  Applications are due September 18.

The grants are available to educators and youth group leaders located in communities served by FirstEnergy's 10 electric operating companies, and in communities where the company has facilities or does business.

In Pennsylvania, it includes service areas for Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power.

STEM Classroom Grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded for teacher professional development initiatives and creative, individual classroom projects for grades pre-kindergarten through 12.

"By supporting innovative classroom experiences, FirstEnergy is encouraging students and teachers to explore the wide variety of career opportunities in the STEM fields of study," said Dee Lowery, vice president, Corporate Affairs and Community Involvement.  "Recognizing the importance of these programs in building the next generation of engineers, scientists, accountants, information technologists and electricians, we are pleased this year to increase the grants from $500 to up to $1,000 each."

Winners will be notified by October 16.  More than 1,000 STEM grants have been awarded to educators and youth group leaders since 1986.

Visit the FirstEnergy STEM Education Grant webpage for more information.

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