Amanda Carter, of the PPG industrial coatings plant in Mount Vernon, Illinois, sponsored a $1,000 grant to fund engineering projects for 19 students at New Hope Grade School. The projects focus on bridge building and show why different designs of bridges are used and how bridges vary in load strength and stability.

Sheila Howell, Title 1 instructor at New Hope Grade School, applied for the Innovative Classroom Grant. Her goal is to help students see links between math, design and technology through projects involving design, construction and testing of bridges.

“PPG employees are excited to partner with local schools to create opportunities such as the bridge engineering projects for students in our communities. It’s great to be able to help New Hope Grade School enhance students’ learning with these hands-on lessons,” Carter said.