Do you have a terrific idea about how to create student excitement about environmental stewardship and promote the protection of our natural environment? Let NC Beautiful help with financial support and encouragement as you develop your idea and become an environmental leader. Since 1999, NC Beautiful, a private, 501(c)3 nonprofit, has provided K-12 teachers, around the state, with resources to develop educational programming that enhances and supports ABC Initiatives and the NC Standard Course of Study. Through the Windows of Opportunity program, teachers are rewarded for their innovation and creativity as they promote these traits in their students, to improve their appreciation of the environment which in turn improves the beauty of our State. We look forward to serving you!

GRANT GOALS - Our Goal is that this grant will:

• Cultivate an appreciation of natural environments by helping children out of school and into natural settings.
• Build leadership awareness of the need for getting youth in the Green.
• Create materials and resources that can be used by others with K-12 students.
• Develop in-school, environmental-educational mentors, and environmental-ambassadors for future growth.
• Develop a sustainable, outdoor program, which will continue after the grant period.

AWARDS - Teachers receive the following:

Grants: Up to $1,000 per grant for use between January 2008 and June 2008. A total of $25,000 is available for distribution for the current year.

Recognition: Certificate Signed by Governor of North Carolina

Eligibility: "Windows of Opportunity Grants are available to K-12 teachers in the state of North Carolina. All project teachers must be certified to teach in North Carolina. Project leaders must be full time teachers at the applicant school. The applicant school must be a recognized, accredited, institution within the state of North Carolina, public or private. (Charter schools are included) The applicant school must follow the recognized NC Standard Course of Study and ABC Initiatives. After-school programs, mentoring programs and preschool programs are not eligible. " S.V. 10/06

SECTIONS - The online application has 5 sections designed to be filled in thru your computer.

1. Contact info; Provide general info about yourself and your school so we can communicate easily
2. Narrative; Up to a two page narrative describing your project
3. Budget; One page justifying your use of the funds and detailing where they will be spent
4. Commitment letter: Letter committing school to complete projected work
5. Supporting documents; (Optional) Drawing, photo, letter of support from community partner

Click on Proceed to Application Details for more information about the online application. You may begin your personal grant application on September 6th.