Motorola grants benefit five area schools

The Motorola Foundation said Wednesday it will provide about $3.5 million in grants -- including five suburban schools -- to help inspire young people in science, technology, engineering and math.

The 2007 Innovation Generation Grants support 106 programs that develop interest in technology-related fields while strengthening leadership and problem-solving skills. The grants target programs that encourage girls and ethnic groups currently underrepresented in technology fields.

Of the recipient programs, 41 percent serve African-American students; 19 percent reach Hispanic youth; and 31 percent specifically target girls.

"Motorola wants to show the next generation of inventors that science is fun, challenging and possible," said Eileen Sweeney, director of the Motorola Foundation.

Local schools that received grants are:

• Crystal Lake South High School, $1,000;

• District 59 Education Foundation, Arlington Heights, $15,000.

• District 15 Educational Foundation, Palatine, $6,388;

• Fairview Elementary PTA in Hoffman Estates, $500.

• Schaumburg Township Elementary School Foundation, $7,800.