MOUNT DESERT – Full-time teachers from Union 98 interested in promoting the study of science, particularly at the elementary level, should apply for grants from the Maine Community Foundation’s John and Ellen Emery Science Grant Program.

Grants range from $100 to $1,000, proposed projects should not replace normal school budget funding and must fulfill several objectives:

. Provide students with more classroom opportunities to understand science and its usefulness in daily life.

. Encourage teachers to obtain training in teaching science to better educate and inspire students.

. Provide teachers with equipment and resources that increase their ability to teach classroom science and further understanding of the field.

. Encourage more students to pursue careers in science and science-related fields.

. Provide students with library books and periodicals that develop an understanding and appreciation of science.

An advisory committee composed of an elementary school teacher, high school science teacher, administrator, school board member and research scientist will make grant decisions. The committee searches for collaborative proposals and will consider proposals that are partnerships with students where the teacher is the primary applicant.

Local residents John and Ellen Emery created the Emery Science Grant Program in 1990 to support science education in Union 98 schools. The fund is managed by the Maine Community Foundation in Ellsworth. For information, call the foundation at (877) 700-6800 or visit the Web site at www.mainecf.org.