Last week 111 students graduating from Springfield Public Schools received a little extra support through scholarships from the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools. Students from Study Alternative High School, Central, Glendale, Hillcrest, Kickapoo and Parkview High Schools benefitted from $147,671 distributed from multiple scholarships. Many of the Foundation’s scholarships are need-based and help students pursue a higher education, who otherwise might not have the opportunity.
The Foundation awarded nearly 120 different scholarships. Of those scholarships four were new this year, the Alberta Smith CHS Choir Scholarship, Thomas L. and Ursalee Coleman-Darton Scholarship, Arthur Elbert Science Education Scholarship and the Paul G. Nahon, III Memorial GHS Tennis Scholarship.
The Alberta Smith CHS Choir Scholarship, established in honor of choir director Alberta Smith, will provide a choir member with an opportunity to further his or her education. “I believe that I am here today because of caring teachers. I never dreamed of going to college until Connie Bilyeu told me that I could. A scholarship like this one will help a singer to make college a reality. My wish is to help my students be life long choir members,” said Smith.
Students receiving scholarships plan to attend schools locally and across the nation including, Missouri State University, University of Arkansas, Columbia University and Brigham Young University. The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools offers scholarships which have been established by donors for students to continue their educations, create strong citizens and invest in the future.
“We are very appreciative to our donors who help to make the FSPS scholarship program possible. These annual scholarships are a lasting legacy for families, individuals, and businesses, and help provide a more secure future for our graduates,” said Jana Bachus, Foundation executive director.
