For many schools around the country, back-to-school this year is a lesson in economics they’d rather not have. Education budgets have been cut nationwide and valuable school programs such as sports, music and art are being hit hard.

These programs are critical to a child’s development and help to provide a well-rounded experience. Pitching in to help, is the idea powering the 2010 Power A Bright Future grant contest, a school grant program the Clorox Company is launching to help fund these vital school programs.

Parents and teachers across the country can nominate school programs for a chance to receive a $50,000 grand-prize grant or one of three $20,000 grants from the Clorox Company to help provide critically needed resources to diminishing school programs.

“This is a chance for us to help,” said Jon Balousek, vice president, Clorox Cleaning Division.  ”Power A Bright Future provides a huge opportunity for Clorox to continue its commitment to America’s schools, and make a positive difference in the lives of children.”

Last year, the Power A Bright Future grant program awarded a total of $50,000 to five children’s organizations across the U.S.

This year, the Clorox Company is turning its attention to schools and doubling the grants to $110,000 total in order to help schools continue to provide opportunities for students to learn, play and create.

“It often takes a year or two before we see the impact of budget cuts; however we know that a large number of Hispanic-serving school districts are in key urban markets, like Los Angeles and New York, and will be critical in shaping what the picture will look like nationally,” said Dr. John Moder, the Chief Operating Officer and senior Vice President at the Hispanic Alliance of Colleges and Universities (HACU).

To asssit in powering a brighter future for our youth, visit www.clorox.com to nominate a school to be the 2010 grant reciepient. Submit a photo and share a little about the program.  Nonminations will be accepted through September 27, 2010.