The folks at South Plains Electric Cooperative are once again investing in local classrooms through its Operation Round Up Teacher Mini-Grant program! Applications are open now through May 16, 2025, at 5 p.m., offering $500 grants to elementary and secondary teachers at qualifying schools across the South Plains.
What Do the Grants Do?
These grants are designed to fund student-centered projects or educational field trips that align with classroom curriculum during the 2025–2026 school year. Whether it’s purchasing new learning tools, enhancing STEM activities, or organizing hands-on experiences, the goal is to enrich student learning beyond the textbook.
The program is fueled by Operation Round Up, a community-driven initiative where cooperative members voluntarily round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar. Those extra cents add up—helping fund scholarships, individual aid, and these teacher mini-grants. Since its inception in 2012, the program has awarded over $56,000 to local educators!
Who’s Eligible?
Teachers from districts including Lubbock ISD, Frenship, Roosevelt, Cotton Center, and many others are eligible to apply. A full list of qualifying schools is available on the application portal. South Plains Electric CooperativeSPECC App Manager
The application process is straightforward: submit a one- to two-page project proposal, timeline, budget, and contact information. Projects will be evaluated by the Operation Round Up Board of Directors based on student involvement, educational value, and creativity. Winners will be notified before the start of the 2025–2026 school year, and all funds must be used during that academic year.
These Grants Help Teachers AND Students!
Past recipients have used their grants for a variety of impactful projects. For instance, Bruce Bearden at Heritage Middle School added a rowing machine to the school’s sensory motor room, while Sarah Denning at Alcove Trails Middle School provided each student in her class with a copy of a Percy Jackson book!
How to Apply
To apply or learn more, visit the South Plains Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up page at spec.coop/operationroundup. For questions, contact Whitney Bryant at 806-775-7829 or [email protected].…