Students across Pender County will benefit from five education projects receiving support through FOCUS Broadband’s 2026 Smart Connections Grant program.
The grants will support projects ranging from biomedical engineering and robotics to music, attendance and positive behavior programs at several Pender County Schools locations.
“Support like this gives our teachers and schools another way to create meaningful opportunities for students,” Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove said. “These projects reflect the different ways our staff are working to keep students engaged, help them build new skills and make connections between what they are learning and the world around them. We appreciate FOCUS Broadband’s continued investment in our schools and communities.”
The five Pender County projects receiving grants are:
BMS Flaming Hot Attendance Program – Burgaw Middle School
The attendance initiative will recognize students for consistent attendance while encouraging them to remain engaged in school.
Hornets SWARM at Penderlea – Penderlea School
Grant funding will provide reward items for the school’s PBIS store. Students can redeem “Hornet Bucks” earned by demonstrating positive behaviors.
21st Century After School Program – Pender County Schools
Elementary students at five PCS after-school sites will participate in hands-on biomedical engineering activities connecting STEAM concepts with real-world learning.
Music Resonates All Around! – Rocky Point Elementary School
Students will use new bass bars and resonator bells as they learn about music, rhythm, pitch and composition through hands-on instruction.
Robotics Club “BogoBots” Robotic Competition – Topsail High School
The grant will help the Topsail High Robotics Club purchase materials needed to build a robot for upcoming competitions at Elon University and UNC Pembroke.
FOCUS Broadband has supported education projects throughout its service area since 2006. The cooperative reports that it has invested more than $1.2 million in education and community-focused initiatives during that time.
“We’re proud to support educators who are finding creative ways to make a difference in the lives of their students,” said Justin Milliken, FOCUS Broadband Board Liaison for the 2026 Grant Committee. “These grants help create opportunities for students to explore their interests, build new skills and discover what they’re capable of achieving.”
Applications for the 2027 Smart Connections Grant Program are expected to open in December.