IRVING, Texas, Nov 13, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- This year, the ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Program contributed $106,500 to Illinois K-12 educational institutions. ExxonMobil recognizes the need for education professionals to engage today's tech-savvy students. Therefore, two hundred and thirteen (213) grants in the amount of $500 each were awarded to a school nominated by local Exxon- or Mobil-branded service stations.

"ExxonMobil and our branded retailers are proud to impact today's student by supporting their neighborhood schools," said Mark Shores, U.S. Retail Sales Director, ExxonMobil Fuels Marketing. "It is one way we support our retailers' involvement in the communities where we do business."

Educational Alliance grants can be used for a broad range of programs based on the needs of the individual school. This year, many schools are using the grants for special projects that stretch beyond academics such as family literacy nights, field trips, and playground equipment. Schools also applied for grants to enhance programs such as character education, professional reading, and exploratory science laboratories.

"The ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Program provides much needed funding to schools for essential programs that otherwise would not be available," said Doug Alexander, President of Story Distributing. "These grants also provide a valuable tool that brings ExxonMobil, the branded store, the school and the community together as partners."

For the seventh year, the ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Program has provided grants to local schools across the country. This year, 4,000 $500 grants totaling $2 million were made to K-12 educational institutions in 44 states and the District of Columbia.

ExxonMobil is a long-standing supporter of education programs around the world. Through numerous grant and scholarships programs, employee volunteers and matching gift programs, ExxonMobil seeks to improve the quality of local schools. Since 2000, the ExxonMobil Educational Alliance program has contributed more than $13.5 million to local schools through its Exxon and Mobil retailers.

SOURCE: Exxon Mobil Corporation

ExxonMobil
Paula Chen, 703-846-4467