The Mini-Grants for Education program was launched in 2005 with the goal of supplementing classroom curriculum and educational opportunities for students at U.S. schools and rewarding the creativity and initiative of teachers and school administrators.

"While the grants are small, these teachers are incredibly resourceful, innovative and able to make a little go a long way for the benefit of their students. The Mini-Grants program allows us to help teachers in their efforts to improve the quality of education for their students by allowing them some extra resources to put to good use," said Tracy Bame, vice president-Phelps Dodge Foundation and director-community affairs, Phelps Dodge Corp.

Applicants may apply for grants of $100 to $500. A school is eligible to receive up to four mini-grants during each application period. Deadlines to apply for the program are Oct. 15 and March 15 of each school year.

Another $37,000 will be awarded to teachers/schools during the next review period, which ends Oct. 15, 2006.

Teachers, school administrators, PTA officials and parent volunteers affiliated with schools located in or near communities in which Phelps Dodge or one of its subsidiaries has a presence are eligible to apply for funds on behalf of a school or classroom, with the stipulation that the applicants are directly involved with the implementation of the project.

The Mini-Grants for Education program supports programs or projects in the areas of:

Funds awarded though the Mini-Grants program may be used for field trip expenses; classroom materials, supplies and equipment; educational competitions at the state, regional or national levels; and student rewards for performance improvement.

Phelps Dodge Corp. and its foundation have identified companywide initiatives and signature programs that enrich communities, encourage sustainability, provide access to resources and build partnerships. For additional information on Phelps Dodge community involvement and corporate giving, contact (602) 366-8116 or visit http://www.phelpsdodge.com/Community-Environment/CommunityRelations

Phelps Dodge Corp. is one of the world‚s leading producers of copper and molybdenum and is the largest producer of molybdenum-based chemicals and continuous-cast copper rod. The company employs 13,500 people worldwide.