Isabella High School science teacher Jay LeCroy accepted a $9,350 grant from Cawaco Resource Conservation and Development Council on Nov. 21 for the Mustang Engineering Robotics Program.

LeCroy started the robotics team at Isabella in 2009 to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Shortly thereafter, the team grew to become countywide.

“I believe through math and science, these kids will build their future,” LeCroy said. “It’s not just me out here. I’ve got help.”

LeCroy was referring to his wife, Nelda, who teaches English at Isabella and helps him write each of his grants.

“She helps me coach everything, develop the programs and write about it,” he said.

With the Cawaco RC&D grant, the robotics team was able to purchase materials for constructing robots, to cover traveling expenses for statewide competitions and to pay for mentors who possess the training or equipment.

Cawaco RC&D is an organization that supports educational and community development projects in Central Alabama.

In addition to coaching the robotics team, LeCroy teaches physics, chemistry and physical sciences in grades 8-12 and was named the 2011 Outstanding High School Science Teacher in October.