NORWICH – Realizing that arts education is often times the first to go when state and local funding cuts happen, the Chenango Arts Council is lending a helping hand to educators through another round of its annual Grants for Teachers program.

Each year, the Chenango Arts Council allocates funds that Program Director Michelle Connelly says helps teachers cut through minimal red tape and allows for maximum flexibility. A total $5,284 was disbursed through the program for 2015, helping to fund initiatives ranging from field trips to musicals.

“This is a program that has been designed by teachers for teachers,” said Connelly. “Of all the programs that are grants related, I feel that this gives the biggest bang for the buck.”

Grants for Teachers is funded through private donations, most of which are raised through the annual Arts Council pig roast held every summer. Additional funding this year was given by Friends of the Arts Council, Walmart, ACCO of Sidney, and Community Bank. In all, more than $6,000 was raised for the program in 2014, helping to fund 12 of a total 13 applicants for the coming year. Remaining funds will be used to kick-off next year’s Grants for Teachers program.

Recipients for 2015 include:

• BOCES: $500 for a public art sculpture

• Gilbertsville-Mt. Upton: $200 for purchase of print disability software