Two Mars Area Middle School teachers received PPG Foundation Innovative Classroom grants.

Erin Bridge, programming teacher, was awarded a $1,000 grant for the purchase of Sphero robots and the Sphero Edu App. Students will use the technology to design, build and program Sphero “battle bots,” which utilize a variety of programming languages.

Adam Benson, technology education teacher, received $850 towards the purchase of a 3-D printer, which students will use to design, create and test their concepts and ideas within the classroom.

The PPG Foundation mini-grant program supports projects that spark students’ interest and achievement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Sharon Bird, PPG Industries TrueFinish Marketing & Support Manager, helped to champion the grant applications. 

For more information, call (724) 625-3145 or visit www.ppgcommunities.com.