CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) —The Charleston Marathon van was busy Friday, September 16, delivering checks to surprised students and teachers at local schools!

Nine schools were awarded a total of $20,000 for various arts programs through the Charleston Marathon grant program. Teacher applicants won funds through a blind scoring process for arts related equipment needs promoting increased exposure to fine arts and positive academic achievement.

“The arts and music programs in the Charleston County School District are vital to our childrens’ success,” said Katey Hines-McCormack, Arts and World Languages Coordinator.  “We appreciate the support of the Charleston Marathon as well as ECM’s efforts to provide our teachers with money to help with arts integration,” Hines-McCormack added.

Schools can gain points toward grants though participation in the Youth Marathon. To volunteer, register for the Shrimp and Grits 5K, Bike Races, Youth Marathon, Full or Half Marathon visit www.charlestonmarathon.com.

“The thing I love about these grants is that the funding goes directly to meet needs identified by teachers,” said Susan Antonelli, Director of Education, Engaging Creative Minds. This money supports quality arts instruction that is going to make a big impact on student learning and strengthen the school’s program. It is such an honor to support that process!,” Antonelli added.

Twenty percent of funds raised go to direct grants to schools. The remaining proceeds benefit Engaging Creative Minds, a local nonprofit that has been nationally recognized for it’s arts integration programming.About 2016 School Grants