$10,000 grants available for middle school PE

JACKSON,Tenn.– For the sixth year, Blue Cross Blue Shield is giving away $200,000 for Physical Education in the Volunteer State.

As part of the “Shape The State” program, 20 schools will win $10,000 each.

Dawn Abel, the director of community relations and foundations for Blue Cross Blue Shield said the money is to build up physical education programs serving grades 6-8.

Schools will receive $9,000 to help purchase everything from pool noodles to scooters for students, according to Abel.

An additional $1,000 is to be used at the discretion of P.E. instructors.

The deadline to apply is April 21, 2016.

Schools with past winners are not eligible to apply.

In West Tennessee, past winners have included schools in Martin, Decatur County and Humboldt.