Money will fund projects in genetics studies, others

HAMILTON DEANERY - Badin High School has received two more grants from the Butler County Rural Electric Cooperative, bringing the total value of grants received by the Badin Science Department from all sources to more than $21,000 since 2001.
Kay Collins, chair of the Badin Science Department, received a grant of $540 for paper-making kits for biology and after-school programs.

Mollie Marot, a biology teacher, received a grant for $847 for genetics material for her biology classes.

"We've been very fortunate to receive some grants that have given a big assist to our department," Collins said. "Butler Rural Electric has been an important part of that, and we really appreciate it."

What's the secret to success in grant writing?

"You can't get discouraged, and you have to look for a grantor that fits your needs,'' Collins said. "You need to be creative and you have to make sure you follow the specifications that the grantor has set out."

"Our science department has done a tremendous job getting valuable funding for their needs through grant efforts," Badin principal Frank Margello said. "I give them a lot of credit for their diligence. It has really paid off."

Collins conceded that Badin had submitted a number of grant requests that have not been successful.

"There are a lot of schools and organizations out there chasing grants, and you have to realize that not everything will be funded," she said. "At the same time, if you have a good idea that one potential grantor doesn't fund, go ahead and submit the idea to someone else. There are a great many opportunities out there."