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How Digital Crowdfunding Is Powering the Next Generation of Scholars

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 01:45:06 GMT

For generations, education has been one of the most powerful pathways to opportunity. Yet for many students, especially those in under-resourced or rural communities, the cost of higher education remains a significant barrier. Tuition, books, housing, and basic living expenses can quickly turn dreams into distant possibilities.

At the same time, technology has transformed how communities come together to solve problems. One of the most impactful shifts has been the rise of digital crowdfunding, a model that allows everyday people to collectively invest in the future of students they believe in.

Today, scholarship crowdfunding is reshaping how educational support works. It’s making funding more accessible, more transparent, and more personal. Organisations like the Bethune Scholarship Foundation are at the forefront of this movement, connecting donors, alumni, families, and neighbours to help students succeed.

In this article, we’ll explore how digital fundraising for education is changing lives, why it’s especially powerful for local communities, and how crowdfunding helps support local students in meaningful, lasting ways.

The Changing Landscape of Educational Funding

The traditional model of funding education is no longer enough.

Rising Costs, Growing Gaps

Over the past few decades:

College tuition has steadily increased
Financial aid hasn’t always kept pace

Many families fall into the “middle gap," earning too much for aid and too little to pay comfortably

As a result, students often face the following:

Increased debt
Delayed graduation
The need to work multiple jobs while studying

These challenges disproportionately affect students from underserved communities.

Why New Funding Models Are Needed

Education funding must now be

Flexible
Community-driven
Scalable

Accessible to both donors and students

Digital crowdfunding answers these needs in ways traditional fundraising often cannot.

What Is Scholarship Crowdfunding?

Scholarship crowdfunding is a form of digital fundraising that pools small contributions from many people to support students’ educational goals.

A Collective Approach to Giving

Instead of relying solely on large donors or institutions, crowdfunding:

Empowers everyday supporters
Allows gifts of all sizes
Builds shared ownership of student success

Each contribution becomes part of a larger story.

Technology as the Connector

Digital platforms make it possible to:

Share student stories securely and ethically
Accept donations online with ease
Track progress and impact in real time

This transparency builds trust and engagement.

Why Digital Fundraising for Education Works So Well

Digital fundraising aligns perfectly with how people communicate and give today.

Accessibility for Donors

With digital tools, supporters can:

Donate from anywhere
Give on their own schedule
Share campaigns with their networks

This removes many traditional barriers to participation.

Visibility for Student Needs

Online campaigns shine a light on:

Individual student journeys
Community challenges
Tangible outcomes

When people see the impact, they’re more likely to engage.

Supporting Local Students Through Community Power

One of the most meaningful aspects of crowdfunding is its ability to support local students.

Why Local Matters

When donors give locally:

They see the impact firsthand
They invest in their own community’s future
They strengthen regional educational ecosystems

Local students are more likely to return, contribute, and lead.

Building a Culture of Care

Scholarship crowdfunding fosters:

Pride in local achievement
Shared responsibility
Intergenerational support

Education becomes a community mission, not an individual struggle.

How Crowdfunding Humanises Education Support

Numbers matter, but stories inspire action.

From Statistics to Stories

Instead of abstract figures, crowdfunding highlights the following:

Student aspirations
Personal challenges
Academic goals

This human connection motivates sustained giving.

Empowerment, Not Charity

Crowdfunding reframes support as:

Investment, not rescue
Partnership, not pity

Students are seen as future leaders, not just recipients.

The Role of Nonprofits in Ethical Crowdfunding

While technology enables crowdfunding, nonprofits ensure integrity.

Why Trusted Organisations Matter

Organisations like the Bethune Scholarship Foundation provide:

Vetting and oversight
Fair selection processes
Accountability to donors and students

This structure ensures funds are used responsibly.

Balancing Privacy and Transparency

Ethical scholarship crowdfunding:

Protects student dignity
Shares impact without exploitation
Prioritizes long-term outcomes

Trust is essential for sustainable digital fundraising.

Digital Fundraising for Education in Rural and Underserved Areas

Crowdfunding is especially powerful in communities with limited access to traditional funding.

Overcoming Geographic Barriers

Digital platforms allow rural students to:

Reach broader donor networks
Access opportunities beyond local constraints
Distance no longer limits possibility.

Amplifying Underrepresented Voices

Crowdfunding helps surface:

First-generation college students
Students from small or overlooked communities
Nontraditional learners

Visibility creates opportunity.

Alumni and Community Members as Catalysts

Crowdfunding thrives when communities rally together.

Alumni Giving Comes Full Circle

Former scholarship recipients and graduates often:

Give back financially
Mentor current students
Advocate for educational access
Their stories inspire confidence and continuity.

Small Gifts, Big Impact

Crowdfunding proves the following:

$10, $25, or $50 gifts matter
Collective effort outperforms individual giving

Participation is more important than donation size.

Practical Tips for Successful Scholarship Crowdfunding

For organizations and supporters alike, thoughtful strategy matters.

Tips for Nonprofits Running Campaigns:

Share clear goals and timelines
Highlight student impact, not just need
Communicate regularly with donors
Celebrate milestones publicly

Consistency builds momentum.

Tips for Donors Supporting Campaigns:

Give what you can, when you can
Share campaigns within your network
Stay engaged beyond one-time gifts

Support extends beyond dollars.

Technology Is a Tool—Community Is the Engine

Crowdfunding platforms are powerful, but people drive change.

Relationships Sustain Impact

Long-term success depends on:

Trust
Communication
Shared values

Digital tools amplify human connection; they don’t replace it.

Education as a Shared Investment

When communities invest together:

Students feel supported
Donors feel connected
Futures feel possible

This is the heart of scholarship crowdfunding.

Measuring the Real Impact of Digital Fundraising

Impact goes beyond dollars raised.

Outcomes That Matter

Effective crowdfunding supports:

Graduation rates
Reduced student debt
Increased confidence and stability

Education changes lives long after the campaign ends.

Ripple Effects in the Community

Educated students contribute by:

Entering the workforce
Supporting families
Giving back locally

The return on investment is generational.

Why Bethune Scholarship Foundation’s Approach Matters

The Bethune Scholarship Foundation understands the following:

Education is deeply personal
Community support fuels resilience
Digital tools must be guided by mission

By combining trusted leadership with modern fundraising methods, the Foundation helps ensure that no student walks their educational journey alone.

The Future of Scholarship Crowdfunding

As technology evolves, so does opportunity.

What’s Ahead

The future of digital fundraising for education includes the following:

More personalised giving experiences
Greater donor engagement
Stronger alumni involvement

But the core mission remains the same: access, equity, and empowerment.

Crowdfunding as a Long-Term Strategy

Rather than a temporary fix, crowdfunding is becoming

A sustainable funding model
A community engagement tool
A bridge between generations

When Communities Fund Education, Futures Flourish

Digital crowdfunding is more than a trend; it’s a movement rooted in connection, trust, and shared purpose. By making it easier to support local students, scholarship crowdfunding ensures that talent and ambition are never limited by financial barriers.

Through thoughtful digital fundraising for education, organisations like the Bethune Scholarship Foundation are proving that when communities come together, students rise and futures are built one contribution at a time. Education thrives when we invest together.

More Than Money: Supporting Student Mental Health on the College Journey

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 02:00:14 GMT

For many students, college represents possibility, new beginnings, expanded horizons, and the promise of a brighter future. But alongside the excitement often comes pressure, uncertainty, and emotional strain. While scholarships and financial assistance are critical, true student success requires more than money.

At Bethune Scholarship Foundation, we believe that supporting students means caring for the whole person. Academic achievement and financial stability matter deeply but so does mental wellness. Today, student mental health support has become one of the most important (and often overlooked) factors in helping students thrive throughout their college journey.

This article explores why mental health matters in higher education, the challenges students face, and how families, communities, colleges, and nonprofit education support organizations can work together to build healthier, more resilient futures.

Why Student Mental Health Matters More Than Ever

College students today face a unique mix of pressures that previous generations rarely experienced at the same intensity.

Rising Academic and Social Pressures

Students juggle:

Rigorous academic workloads
Financial responsibilities
Social expectations
Career uncertainty
Family obligations

Even high-achieving students can feel overwhelmed when expectations pile up faster than support systems.

Mental Health and Academic Success Are Linked

Research consistently shows that emotional well-being directly impacts:

Focus and memory
Class attendance
Retention and graduation rates
Overall life satisfaction

When students struggle mentally, even the most generous scholarship may not be enough to keep them on track.

Common Mental Health Challenges College Students Face

Understanding the challenges is the first step toward meaningful support.

Anxiety and Stress

Deadlines, exams, financial concerns, and future planning often lead to chronic stress. Left unmanaged, stress can escalate into anxiety disorders that affect daily functioning.

Depression and Isolation

Transitioning to college can bring loneliness, especially for:

First-generation college students
Students far from home
Those adjusting to new cultural environments

Without strong emotional support, isolation can deepen into depression.

Burnout and Exhaustion

The pressure to “do it all” often leaves students emotionally and physically drained.

Burnout can cause:

Loss of motivation
Academic disengagement
Declining health

The Hidden Gap Between Financial Aid and Emotional Support

Scholarships ease financial burden but they don’t automatically address mental wellness.

Why Financial Support Alone Isn’t Enough

Many students receiving scholarships:

Feel intense pressure to succeed
Fear disappointing donors or families
Hesitate to ask for help

This pressure can discourage students from acknowledging mental health struggles.

The Role of Nonprofit Education Support

Organizations like Bethune Scholarship Foundation play a vital role by:

Normalizing conversations about mental health
Connecting students to college wellness resources
Reinforcing that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness

College Wellness Resources Every Student Should Know About

Most colleges offer mental health support, but many students don’t know what’s available or how to access it.

Campus Counselling Services

These services often include:

Individual counseling
Group therapy
Crisis intervention
Stress management workshops

Encouraging students to explore these resources early helps remove stigma.

Peer Support and Student Groups

Peer-led initiatives create safe spaces where students can:

Share experiences
Build friendships
Reduce feelings of isolation

Connection is one of the most powerful mental health tools.

Academic Advising and Faculty Support

Professors and advisors can be allies when students feel overwhelmed. Open communication often leads to:

Flexible deadlines
Academic accommodations

Guidance during challenging semesters

How Families Can Support Student Mental Health

Family support remains critical even after students leave home.

Maintain Open Communication

Regular check-ins that focus on how students are feeling, not just grades, help build trust.

Encourage Balance, Not Perfection

Remind students that:

Struggle is part of growth
Rest is productive
Self-worth isn’t tied to GPA

These messages reduce internal pressure.

Normalise Mental Health Care

When families speak openly about mental wellness, students feel safer seeking help.

The Role of Community and Nonprofits in Student Wellness

Student mental health support doesn’t stop at campus boundaries.

Creating a Network of Care

Communities and nonprofits can:

Offer mentorship programs
Provide wellness workshops
Connect students with off-campus counselling

This layered support system strengthens student resilience.

Scholarships With Heart

Forward-thinking scholarship programs recognise that:

Emotional health affects academic outcomes
Students need encouragement, not just funding
Support should continue beyond the award letter

This holistic approach helps students feel seen and valued.

Practical Tips for Students to Protect Their Mental Health

Empowering students with tools they can use daily makes a lasting difference.

1. Build a Routine That Includes Rest

Consistent sleep, meals, and breaks help regulate stress and improve focus.

2. Ask for Help Early

Reaching out before problems escalate is one of the strongest habits students can develop.

3. Stay Connected

Friendships, study groups, and community involvement reduce loneliness and build belonging.

4. Practice Self-Compassion

College is a learning process; mistakes don’t define a student’s future.

Reducing Stigma Around Mental Health in Education

Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to care.

Why Students Stay Silent

Many students fear:

Appearing weak
Being judged

Losing academic or scholarship opportunities

Open dialogue helps dismantle these fears.

How Organizations Can Lead the Way

Nonprofit education support organizations can:

Share mental health resources proactively
Include wellness messaging in communications
Highlight stories of resilience and growth

Visibility creates permission to seek help.

Supporting First-Generation and Underrepresented Students

Some students face additional emotional challenges navigating unfamiliar systems.

Unique Stressors

First-generation and underrepresented students may experience:

Cultural isolation
Imposter syndrome
Family pressure to succeed

Targeted mental health support helps bridge these gaps.

The Importance of Mentorship

Mentors who understand students’ backgrounds can:

Validate experiences
Offer guidance

Provide reassurance during difficult transitions

Mental Wellness as a Foundation for Long-Term Success

College is not just about earning a degree; it’s about building a life.

Skills Students Carry Forward

Mental health support helps students develop:

Emotional resilience
Healthy coping strategies
Confidence in asking for help

These skills serve them long after graduation.

Investing in People, Not Just Programs

When we invest in student wellness, we invest in:

Stronger graduates
Healthier communities

Future leaders who value balance and compassion

How Bethune Scholarship Foundation Supports the Whole Student

At Bethune Scholarship Foundation, we understand that education support extends beyond tuition.

Our commitment includes:

Encouraging holistic student success
Advocating for mental health awareness

Supporting students through challenges, not just achievements

By prioritising well-being alongside academics, we help students stay grounded, confident, and prepared for life beyond college.

Because Student Success Is More Than a GPA

Supporting students means recognising that mental health is not optional; it’s essential. Scholarships open doors, but emotional wellness helps students walk through them with confidence.

When families, schools, nonprofits, and communities come together to support student mental health, we create pathways not just to graduation but to thriving, fulfilled lives.

At Bethune Scholarship Foundation, we believe in nurturing minds, hearts, and futures because students deserve support that lasts far beyond the classroom.

How Donors, Board Members, and Alumni Build Futures Together

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:57:09 GMT

Behind every life-changing scholarship is a powerful network of people working together with purpose. While financial support is essential, scholarships thrive when donors, board members, and alumni unite around a shared mission. It’s this collaboration that transforms funding into futures and opportunity into long-term impact.

At Bethune Scholarship Foundation, education is not a solo effort, it’s a community-driven commitment. From visionary leadership to generous giving and alumni engagement, every role plays a part in creating sustainable pathways for students to succeed.

In this article, we’ll explore how nonprofit board leadership, donor impact education, and community scholarship support work together to strengthen educational access and build brighter futures for generations to come.

The Power of Collective Investment in Education

Scholarships Are More Than Financial Aid

Scholarships do more than help students pay tuition. They represent belief, encouragement, and opportunity, often at moments when students need it most.

When multiple stakeholders align, scholarships become:

Sustainable, long-term programs
Community-supported initiatives
Vehicles for generational change

This collective approach ensures that educational support continues long after a single donation or graduation.

The Role of Donors: Turning Generosity into Opportunity

Donor Impact Education in Action

Donors are often the first spark behind scholarship programs. Their generosity opens doors that might otherwise remain closed. But meaningful giving goes beyond writing a check, it’s about understanding and amplifying impact.

Donor impact education helps supporters see:

How contributions directly support students
The long-term outcomes of educational access
The ripple effect of scholarships within communities

When donors understand the real-world impact of their giving, they become long-term partners in the mission.

Why Donors Stay Engaged

Engaged donors are more likely to:

Continue giving year after year
Advocate for the organization
Inspire others to get involved

By sharing student stories, milestones, and outcomes, organizations like Bethune Scholarship Foundation deepen donor connection and trust.

Nonprofit Board Leadership: Guiding the Mission Forward

Strategic Oversight with Purpose

Strong nonprofit board leadership is essential to the success of any scholarship foundation. Board members provide governance, accountability, and strategic vision, ensuring the organisation stays aligned with its mission.

Effective board leadership includes:

Setting long-term goals
Upholding ethical and financial integrity
Supporting executive leadership
Advocating for the organization in the community

This leadership creates stability, transparency, and confidence among donors and stakeholders alike.

Board Members as Stewards of Community Trust

Board members often serve as ambassadors, connecting the foundation to local networks and resources. Their involvement reinforces credibility and helps strengthen community scholarship support.

By bringing diverse perspectives and expertise, board members help ensure that scholarship programs remain responsive and impactful.

Alumni: Living Proof of Impact

From Scholarship Recipients to Changemakers

Alumni represent the heart of scholarship success. They are living examples of what happens when opportunity meets determination.

Alumni contributions go beyond financial support:

Mentorship for current students
Advocacy within the community
Leadership roles within the organization

Their stories inspire donors and validate the mission.

Alumni Engagement Strengthens the Cycle

When alumni stay connected, they help create a self-sustaining ecosystem of support.

Their involvement:

Encourages student persistence
Demonstrates long-term outcomes
Strengthens the foundation’s credibility

This cycle of giving back reinforces the purpose of community scholarship support.

How Collaboration Builds Stronger Futures

Alignment Creates Lasting Impact

The true strength of scholarship programs lies in collaboration. When donors, board members, and alumni work together, the result is greater than the sum of its parts.

Collaboration allows for:

Better decision-making
Stronger program design
More effective resource allocation

This shared commitment ensures that scholarship initiatives remain resilient and adaptable.

Building Trust Through Transparency

Communication Is Key

Trust is foundational in nonprofit work. Open communication helps align expectations and reinforce accountability.

Best practices include:

Regular impact reports for donors
Clear governance structures for boards
Meaningful engagement opportunities for alumni

Transparency strengthens relationships and encourages continued support.

Community Scholarship Support: A Shared Responsibility

Education Thrives in Community

Scholarships don’t exist in isolation. They are part of a broader ecosystem that includes families, schools, mentors, and local organizations.

Community scholarship support means:

Recognizing local needs
Addressing barriers to education
Building partnerships that extend beyond funding

This approach ensures that students receive holistic support not just financial assistance.

Practical Ways Stakeholders Can Get Involved

For Donors

Learn about student outcomes and program goals

Engage in donor impact education opportunities

Share the mission within your network

For Board Members

Advocate for strong governance and accountability

Support strategic planning initiatives

Foster relationships with donors and alumni

For Alumni

Mentor current scholarship recipients

Participate in events or outreach

Share personal success stories

Each role strengthens the foundation’s mission.

The Long-Term Value of Educational Investment

Beyond Graduation

The impact of scholarships extends well beyond a student’s academic journey.

Graduates often contribute to:

Workforce development
Community leadership
Economic growth

By investing in education today, stakeholders help shape stronger communities tomorrow.

Why Partnership Matters More Than Ever

Navigating Today’s Challenges Together

Rising education costs, economic uncertainty, and access barriers make collaboration more important than ever. Unified efforts ensure scholarship programs remain sustainable and effective.

Strong partnerships allow organizations like Bethune Scholarship Foundation to adapt, grow, and continue serving students in meaningful ways.

Measuring Impact for Continuous Improvement

Learning from Outcomes

Impact measurement helps refine scholarship programs and demonstrate success.

Metrics may include:

Graduation rates
Career outcomes
Alumni engagement levels

Sharing these insights strengthens donor impact education and reinforces trust across all stakeholders.

Creating a Legacy Through Education

Purpose-Driven Giving and Leadership

When donors, board members, and alumni align around a shared vision, they create more than programs. They create legacies.

This legacy is built on:

Access to education
Empowerment through opportunity
Commitment to community upliftment

Education becomes a bridge between generations.

Building Futures, Together

Scholarships are most powerful when they are community-driven. Through strong nonprofit board leadership, informed and engaged donors, and active alumni involvement, organizations like Bethune Scholarship Foundation continue to transform lives through education.

By working together, these partners ensure that opportunity is not limited by circumstance and that futures are built with intention, collaboration, and care.

Because when a community invests in education together, everyone benefits.

Why Local Scholarships Matter More Than Ever

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:08:58 GMT

In a time when the cost of education continues to rise and economic uncertainty affects families across the country, access to higher education is becoming increasingly unequal. While national scholarships and large financial aid programs often dominate the In
conversation, local scholarships are quietly becoming one of the most powerful tools for educational equity, especially in underserved and rural communities.

Local scholarships do more than help students pay tuition. They strengthen communities, empower first-generation learners, and provide targeted community-based education support that larger systems often overlook. For students in small towns and rural areas, local funding can be the difference between pursuing higher education or postponing dreams indefinitely.

At organisations like the Bethune Scholarship Foundation, the mission is clear: invest locally, uplift students personally, and create long-term impact through education. In this article, we explore why local scholarships matter more than ever and why their role will only continue to grow in the years ahead.

The Rising Cost of Education and Its Uneven Impact

Education is becoming less affordable, even locally as well.

College tuition, textbooks, housing, transportation, and technology costs have increased steadily over the past decade. While financial aid exists, it often fails to account for the unique challenges faced by students in smaller or rural communities.

For many families:

Household incomes haven’t kept pace with tuition increases
Emergency expenses derail education plans
Student loan debt feels overwhelming before college even begins

These challenges are often amplified in rural areas, where fewer resources and opportunities exist. This is where local scholarships play a critical role, filling gaps that national programs simply can’t address.

What Are Local Scholarships?

Education Support Rooted in Community

Local scholarships are financial awards offered by community organisations, nonprofits, schools, faith-based groups, or local foundations to students within a specific geographic area.

Unlike national scholarships, local scholarships often:

Have fewer applicants
Consider community involvement and character
Understand local economic realities
Offer personalised support beyond financial aid

They are designed not just to fund education but to invest in people.

Why Local Scholarships Matter More Than Ever

1. They Address Real, Local Needs

National scholarship programs often rely on broad eligibility criteria. Local scholarships, however, are rooted in lived experience.

They understand:

Local cost-of-living challenges
Transportation and housing barriers
Family responsibilities many students carry
Limited access to academic counseling

This makes local scholarships uniquely effective at providing community-based education support tailored to real circumstances.

2. They Support First-Generation and Rural Students

Many rural and first-generation students face invisible barriers:

Lack of college preparation resources
Limited access to mentorship
Fewer role models with college experience

Rural student aid through local scholarships helps level the playing field by offering encouragement, validation, and belief, not just money.

When students feel seen and supported by their own community, they’re more likely to persist and succeed.

The Power of Community-Based Education Support

Education Thrives When Communities Invest Together

Community-based education support goes beyond writing a check. It creates an ecosystem of encouragement around students.

Local scholarship programs often provide:

Mentorship opportunities
Academic encouragement
Career exposure
Emotional and moral support

This holistic approach increases student confidence and long-term success far beyond graduation.

Scholarships as a Vote of Confidence

Receiving a local scholarship sends a powerful message:

“Your community believes in you.”

For many students, this validation is just as impactful as the financial support itself. It builds confidence, motivation, and a sense of responsibility to give back.

Why Rural Student Aid Is Especially Critical Today

Unique Challenges in Rural Communities

Rural students often face obstacles that urban and suburban students don’t:

Fewer nearby colleges or trade schools
Higher transportation and relocation costs
Limited internet access
Fewer advanced academic programs

Without targeted rural student aid, many capable students are left behind simply because of geography.

Local scholarships help bridge this gap by addressing:

Relocation expenses
Technology needs
Supplemental educational costs

Keeping Talent Local and Strengthening Communities

Education as a Long-Term Investment

When communities invest in local students, they’re also investing in their future workforce, leadership, and sustainability.

Students who receive local scholarships are more likely to:

Return to their communities after graduation
Become educators, healthcare workers, entrepreneurs, and leaders
Mentor the next generation of students

Local scholarships help prevent “brain drain” and foster community growth.

How Local Scholarships Complement National Aid

Filling the Gaps: Large Programs Miss

Federal aid and national scholarships are valuable, but they often leave gaps.

Local scholarships can help cover:

Books and supplies
Housing deposits
Transportation
Emergency expenses

These smaller, practical costs are often the reason students drop out. Local support ensures that financial hurdles don’t derail educational goals.

Practical Tips for Students Seeking Local Scholarships

How to Maximise Opportunities

If you’re a student or parent exploring local scholarships, here are some practical tips:

1. Start Early

Local scholarships often have earlier deadlines. Begin researching at least 6–12 months in advance.

2. Look Beyond Academics

Many local scholarships value leadership, service, resilience, and character, not just GPA.

3. Tell Your Story

Community organisations want to understand your journey. Be honest, authentic, and personal in applications.

4. Apply for Multiple Awards

Small scholarships add up. Applying locally increases your chances of success.

Practical Tips for Communities and Donors

How to Strengthen Local Scholarship Programs

For organisations and supporters looking to make an impact:

1. Focus on Accessibility

Simplify application processes to reduce barriers.

2. Offer Mentorship

Pair financial aid with guidance and encouragement.

3. Build Long-Term Relationships

Stay connected with recipients beyond the award.

4. Measure Community Impact

Track graduation rates, career outcomes, and community engagement.

The Role of Organisations Like Bethune Scholarship Foundation

The Bethune Scholarship Foundation embodies the true spirit of local scholarships by focusing on access, equity, and empowerment. By prioritising community-based education support and addressing the unique needs of underserved and rural students, the foundation helps transform individual lives and entire communities.

Its work reflects a powerful truth: education is not just a personal achievement, it’s a shared responsibility.

Local Scholarships and Educational Equity

Closing the Opportunity Gap

Educational equity doesn’t mean giving everyone the same resources; it means giving students what they need to succeed.

Local scholarships:

Recognise unequal starting points
Address overlooked barriers
Provide targeted rural student aid
Promote inclusive access to education

They are one of the most effective tools for creating lasting change.

Why Local Scholarships Matter for the Future

As economic pressures increase and educational pathways diversify, the importance of local scholarships will only grow.

They are:

Flexible
Personal
Community-driven
Impact-focused

In a rapidly changing world, local solutions often offer the most sustainable answers.

Small Scholarships, Big Impact

Local scholarships may not make headlines, but their impact is profound. They empower students, strengthen communities, and create pathways to opportunity that might otherwise remain closed.

By investing in local scholarships, expanding community-based education support, and prioritising rural student aid, organisations like the

Bethune Scholarship Foundation are shaping a future where education is accessible, equitable, and transformative.

When communities support their students, everyone rises, one scholar at a time.

College Readiness in 2026: What High School Seniors Really Need

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:20:15 GMT

College readiness looks very different in 2026 than it did even a few years ago. While good grades and test scores still matter, they’re no longer enough on their own. Today’s high school seniors are stepping into a world shaped by rapid technology changes, rising education costs, mental health challenges, and evolving career paths.

For many students, especially first-generation college students the transition from high school to college can feel overwhelming. There’s excitement, yes, but also uncertainty: Am I really ready? What will college expect from me? How do I manage everything on my own?

True college readiness goes beyond academics. It’s about preparation, confidence, life skills, and support systems that help students not only get into college but thrive once they arrive.

In this guide, we’ll break down what high school seniors really need in 2026 to succeed , offering practical, realistic student success tips for navigating the high school to college transition with confidence.

What College Readiness Really Means in 2026

College readiness today is multi-dimensional. It includes academic skills, emotional resilience, financial awareness, and the ability to adapt to new environments.

In 2026, colleges are looking for students who can:

Think critically and independently
Manage time and responsibilities
Advocate for themselves
Adapt to digital and hybrid learning environments
Seek help when needed

Being “ready” doesn’t mean having everything figured out. It means having the tools and mindset to grow.

Academic Readiness Still Matters But Differently

Grades and coursework remain important, but colleges increasingly focus on skill mastery, not memorization.

Core Academic Skills Students Need

High school seniors should focus on:

Reading comprehension and analysis
Writing clearly and persuasively
Basic math and data literacy
Research and source evaluation

These skills form the foundation for success across all majors.

Study Skills Over Study Hours

College learning is more self-directed than high school. Students benefit from learning how to:

Take effective notes
Study in focused sessions
Prepare for cumulative exams
Balance multiple deadlines

Developing these habits before college eases the transition significantly.

Time Management and Independence Are Non-Negotiable

One of the biggest challenges in the high school to college transition is freedom.

In college, no one checks:

If you attend class
If you turn in assignments on time

If you’re getting enough sleep

Practical Time Management Tips

High school seniors should practice:

Using planners or digital calendars
Breaking large tasks into smaller steps
Prioritizing responsibilities
Setting realistic daily routines

Time management is one of the most underrated student success tips and one of the most impactful.

Digital Readiness for Modern College Life

College in 2026 is deeply digital. From online portals to virtual lectures, students need strong tech skills to stay organized and engaged.

Essential Digital Skills

Students should be comfortable with:

Learning management systems (LMS)
Email communication with professors
Video conferencing tools
Online research databases

Digital confidence reduces stress and helps students stay connected and informed.

Emotional and Mental Readiness Matter More Than Ever

Academic ability alone doesn’t guarantee success. Emotional well-being plays a huge role in persistence and performance.

Common Emotional Challenges for New College Students

Homesickness
Imposter syndrome
Academic pressure
Social adjustment

Preparing students to navigate these challenges is a crucial part of college readiness.

Building Emotional Resilience

Encourage students to:

Ask for help early
Use campus counseling resources
Practice self-care routines
Build supportive peer connections

Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges, it’s about learning how to respond to them.

Financial Literacy Is a Critical Readiness Skill

Many students enter college without fully understanding the financial responsibilities involved.

What Students Need to Know Before College

How financial aid works
The difference between grants, scholarships, and loans
Basic budgeting skills
The long-term impact of student debt

Organizations like Bethune Scholarship Foundation play a vital role in closing this knowledge gap and empowering students with access and guidance.

The Importance of Self-Advocacy in College

In college, students are expected to speak up for themselves.

Self-Advocacy Skills to Practice

Communicating with professors
Seeking academic accommodations when needed
Using tutoring and support services
Asking questions without fear

Students who advocate for themselves early are more likely to stay on track academically and emotionally.

Career Awareness Starts Before Freshman Year

College readiness in 2026 includes early exposure to career pathways.

Students benefit from:

Exploring majors and careers early
Understanding internships and experiential learning
Building basic professional skills

This doesn’t mean having a lifelong career mapped out, it means staying curious and informed.

Support Systems Make the Difference

No student succeeds alone. Support formal and informal is one of the strongest predictors of persistence.

Types of Support That Matter

Family encouragement
Mentors and advisors
Peer networks
Community organizations

Scholarship foundations and nonprofits often provide not just financial aid, but guidance, mentorship, and encouragement that change lives.

Common College Readiness Myths

“Only top students are college-ready.”

College readiness is about preparation, not perfection.

“If you’re smart, you’ll figure it out.”

Support and guidance matter just as much as intelligence.

“Struggling means you don’t belong.”

Struggle is part of growth, not a sign of failure.

Practical College Readiness Checklist for Seniors

Before graduation, students should aim to:

Understand their financial aid package
Practice independent study habits
Build time management routines
Learn how to access campus resources
Develop confidence in asking for help

Small steps now lead to smoother transitions later.

How Families and Communities Can Help

College readiness is a shared effort.

Supportive adults can:

Encourage open conversations
Help students plan realistically
Celebrate progress, not just outcomes
Connect students to resources and opportunities

Community-based support is especially powerful for first-generation students.

Preparing Students for Success Beyond Admission

College readiness in 2026 is about more than getting accepted, it’s about staying, growing, and graduating with confidence.

When students are equipped with academic skills, emotional resilience, financial awareness, and strong support systems, the transition from high school to college becomes less intimidating and more empowering.

At Bethune Scholarship Foundation, the mission goes beyond scholarships, it’s about creating pathways for student success, equity, and opportunity. By focusing on what students really need, we can help the next generation not just attend college but thrive in it.

The future is brighter when students are truly prepared.

AI in Education: What Today’s Students Need to Know Before College

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 18:39:31 GMT

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer something reserved for science fiction movies or tech companies, it’s already part of everyday student life. From smart tutoring platforms to personalized learning apps, AI is transforming how students learn, study, and prepare for the future.

As students get ready for college, understanding how AI fits into education is becoming just as important as traditional academic skills. Colleges and universities are increasingly using student learning technology powered by AI, and students who know how to work with these tools, not against them, are better prepared to succeed.

In this guide , we’ll explore how AI in education is shaping today’s classrooms, what students should know before stepping onto a college campus, and which college readiness skills matter most in an AI-driven world.

What Is AI in Education?

Artificial intelligence in education refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making within educational environments.

Common Examples of AI in Education

Students may already be using AI without realizing it, including:

Personalized learning platforms that adapt to progress
AI-powered tutoring and homework help
Grammar and writing assistants
Adaptive testing tools
Chatbots for academic advising or campus support

These tools aim to enhance learning, not replace teachers or human interaction.

Why AI Matters for College-Bound Students

College environments are becoming increasingly digital. Understanding how AI is used helps students transition more smoothly and confidently.

AI Is Already Part of Higher Education

Many colleges now use AI to:

Personalize coursework
Track academic progress
Recommend resources or study plans
Support students at risk of falling behind

Students who understand these systems can use them strategically instead of feeling overwhelmed.

How AI Supports Student Learning Technology

AI-powered student learning technology focuses on personalization, efficiency, and accessibility.

Personalized Learning Paths

AI systems can:

Identify strengths and weaknesses
Adjust lesson difficulty
Recommend additional practice where needed

This means students receive support tailored to their learning style something especially valuable during the transition to college-level coursework.

Instant Feedback and Support

Unlike traditional learning models, AI tools often provide immediate feedback.

This helps students:

Correct mistakes quickly
Understand concepts in real time
Build confidence through practice

Immediate feedback encourages independent learning, a key expectation in college.

Essential College Readiness Skills in an AI-Driven World

Academic knowledge alone is no longer enough. Students need a broader set of skills to thrive in college and beyond.

1. Digital Literacy

Digital literacy goes beyond knowing how to use a computer.

Students should understand:

How AI tools work at a basic level
When to rely on technology and when not to
How to evaluate digital information critically

Being digitally literate helps students use AI responsibly and effectively.

2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

AI can provide answers, but it can’t replace human reasoning.

College-ready students must be able to:

Analyze information critically
Ask meaningful questions
Solve complex problems without shortcuts

AI in education works best when paired with strong thinking skills.

3. Ethical Awareness and Responsibility

With powerful technology comes responsibility.

Students should understand:

Academic integrity and plagiarism rules
Ethical use of AI-generated content
Data privacy and digital footprints

Colleges expect students to use AI as a support tool not as a replacement for original work.

4. Adaptability and Lifelong Learning

Technology evolves rapidly. Students who succeed are those willing to adapt.

AI-focused college readiness skills include:

Learning new tools quickly
Staying curious and flexible
Embracing continuous improvement

These traits help students thrive both academically and professionally.

How Students Can Use AI as a Learning Partner

AI is most effective when used intentionally.

Smart Ways to Use AI Tools

Students can use AI to:

Organize study schedules
Review difficult concepts
Practice writing and grammar
Generate study questions
Explore career paths

The goal is to enhance understanding not to avoid learning.

Avoiding Over-Reliance on AI

While AI is helpful, over-dependence can weaken essential skills.

Students should avoid:

Submitting AI-generated work as their own
Skipping the learning process
Relying on AI for critical thinking

Balance is key to using AI responsibly in education.

AI and Academic Integrity in College

Colleges take academic honesty seriously, and AI has introduced new challenges.

Understanding College Policies

Most institutions now have guidelines about AI usage.

Students should:

Review academic integrity policies carefully
Ask professors about acceptable AI use
Use AI transparently and ethically

Understanding expectations early prevents serious consequences later.

Preparing for AI-Powered College Classrooms

High school students can start preparing now.

Practical Preparation Tips

Learn the Basics of AI

Understanding what AI is and what it isn’t helps students feel confident.

Practice Independent Learning

College requires self-directed study, and AI tools often support this model.

Build Strong Writing and Research Skills

AI can assist, but original thinking and communication remain essential.

Develop Time Management Skills

AI tools may track progress, but students must still manage their time effectively.

How AI Supports Equity and Access in Education

AI in education has the potential to reduce barriers for many students.

Increased Access to Resources

AI-powered platforms can:

Offer tutoring outside traditional hours
Support students with different learning needs
Provide language and accessibility tools

This aligns with the mission of organizations like the Bethune Scholarship Foundation, which support educational opportunity and student success.

The Role of Educators and Mentors

AI works best alongside human guidance.

Why Human Support Still Matters

Teachers, mentors, and counselors:

Provide emotional intelligence AI can’t replicate
Offer context, encouragement, and motivation
Help students set goals and stay accountable

AI is a tool but people remain at the heart of education.

Career Readiness and AI Awareness

Understanding AI in education also prepares students for future careers.

AI Skills Are Career Skills

Many industries now expect:

Comfort with digital tools
Analytical thinking
Ethical decision-making

Early exposure to AI helps students become competitive, informed professionals.

Common Myths About AI in Education

Myth 1: AI Will Replace Teachers

Reality: AI supports learning, but educators remain essential.

Myth 2: AI Makes Learning Easier Without Effort

Reality: AI enhances learning, but effort and engagement still matter.

Myth 3: Only Tech Students Need to Understand AI

Reality: AI impacts all fields from healthcare to business to education.

Final Thoughts: Empowering Students for the Future

AI is shaping how students learn, think, and prepare for college and understanding it is no longer optional. By developing strong digital literacy, ethical awareness, and critical thinking, students can use AI as a powerful ally rather than a shortcut.

AI in education is not about replacing human potential, it’s about expanding it. When paired with curiosity, responsibility, and support, student learning technology can help students enter college confident, prepared, and ready to succeed.

As students take their next academic steps, learning how to navigate AI thoughtfully is one of the most valuable college readiness skills they can develop, setting the foundation for success in college and beyond.

First-Gen to Future Leader: How Scholarships Shape College Success

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 18:12:03 GMT

For many students, going to college is an expected next step guided by parents who’ve been there before, supported by family traditions, and reinforced by generational knowledge. But for first-generation college students, the journey looks very different.

Being the first in your family to attend college is both an incredible achievement and a unique challenge. These students often carry the hopes of their families, navigate unfamiliar systems on their own, and balance financial pressures that can make higher education feel out of reach.

That’s where scholarships come in not just as financial aid, but as powerful tools for opportunity, confidence, and transformation.

At the Bethune Scholarship Foundation , we believe scholarships do more than help students enroll in college. They help first-generation students become confident scholars, resilient leaders, and change-makers for future generations.

Who Are First-Generation College Students?

Defining the First-Gen Experience

A first-generation college student is typically someone whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree.

While each student’s story is unique, many share common experiences, including:

Limited guidance on the college application process
Financial uncertainty and work obligations
Pressure to support family members
Feelings of isolation or imposter syndrome

Despite these challenges, first-generation college students often bring extraordinary strengths determination, adaptability, and a deep sense of purpose.

Why First-Gen Students Matter

First-generation students are vital to the future of education, leadership, and economic growth.

When they succeed, the impact extends beyond the individual it uplifts families, strengthens communities, and creates pathways for others to follow.

Expanding education access for first-gen students isn’t just an investment in individuals; it’s an investment in collective progress.

The Barriers to College Success

Financial Challenges Beyond Tuition

College costs go far beyond tuition. Books, housing, transportation, meals, technology, and unexpected expenses add up quickly.

For many first-generation students:

Financial aid may not fully cover costs
Family support may be limited
Working long hours can impact academic performance

Without adequate support, even the most motivated students can struggle to persist.

Navigating College Without a Roadmap

Many students rely on family members for guidance on:

Choosing a major
Understanding financial aid
Registering for classes
Seeking academic support

First-generation students often navigate these systems alone, which can lead to missed opportunities or unnecessary setbacks.

How Scholarships Change the Equation

More Than Money—A Foundation for Success

Scholarships provide financial relief, but their impact goes far deeper.

For first-generation students, scholarships often mean:

Reduced stress and financial anxiety
Fewer work hours and more time to study
The ability to participate fully in campus life

These benefits directly contribute to higher retention and graduation rates key indicators of college success scholarships in action.

Scholarships as a Vote of Confidence

Being selected for a scholarship sends a powerful message:
You belong here. Your dreams matter.

That validation can be life-changing, especially for students who may doubt whether they fit in at college.

Scholarships and Academic Achievement

Improved Focus and Performance

When financial stress is reduced, students are better able to focus on academics.

Scholarship recipients often report:

Improved grades
Higher class engagement
Greater confidence seeking help

This academic stability lays the groundwork for long-term success.

Access to Enrichment Opportunities

Scholarships can also make it possible for students to:

Participate in internships
Study abroad
Join leadership programs
Attend academic conferences

These experiences enhance resumes, build networks, and expand career opportunities especially for students without existing professional connections.

Building Leaders Through Education

From First-Gen Student to Future Leader

Education doesn’t just prepare students for jobs, it prepares them for leadership.

First-generation students often develop:

Strong problem-solving skills
Empathy and social awareness
Resilience in the face of adversity

With the right support, these qualities translate into leadership in business, education, healthcare, public service, and beyond.

The Ripple Effect of Scholarship Support

When first-generation students graduate, the impact multiplies:

Younger siblings are inspired
Families gain financial stability
Communities benefit from skilled professionals

Scholarships don’t just change one life, they help shape the future.

Practical Tips for First-Generation College Students

Make the Most of Scholarship Support

If you’re a first-generation student receiving a scholarship, here are ways to maximize its impact:

Ask questions early and often – Advisors and professors are there to help
Use campus resources – Tutoring centers, counseling services, and career offices exist for a reason
Build a support network – Connect with peers, mentors, and scholarship organizations
Balance work and study carefully – Protect your academic priorities

Scholarships provide a foundation but success grows through engagement and persistence.

Advice for Families Supporting First-Gen Students

Families play a crucial role, even without college experience.

Support can look like:

Encouragement during stressful times
Flexibility with family responsibilities
Celebrating milestones and achievements

Your belief makes a difference.

The Role of Nonprofits in Expanding Education Access

Why Scholarship Foundations Matter

Nonprofit organizations bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.

They:

Identify deserving students
Reduce financial barriers
Provide encouragement and visibility
Promote equity in higher education

By focusing on education access, scholarship foundations help ensure that potential not privilege determines success.

The Bethune Scholarship Foundation’s Mission

The Bethune Scholarship Foundation is committed to empowering students through education by supporting those who may otherwise be overlooked.

By investing in students today, the Foundation helps create:

Confident graduates
Community leaders
Role models for future generations

This mission honors the belief that education is a powerful tool for social change.

Measuring the Impact of College Success Scholarships

What Success Looks Like

Scholarship impact is measured not only in graduation rates, but in:

Career readiness
Leadership development
Community involvement
Lifelong confidence

When students succeed, the return on investment is immeasurable.

Looking Ahead: The Future of First-Gen Student Success

As college costs rise and economic pressures increase, the need for scholarships will only grow. Supporting first-generation students is essential to building a more inclusive, educated, and equitable future.

By continuing to expand scholarship opportunities, we:

Open doors
Break cycles
Create leaders

Turning Firsts Into Futures

Being the first in your family to attend college is a powerful beginning but it shouldn’t be a lonely one. With the right support, encouragement, and access to scholarships, first-generation students can thrive academically and emerge as leaders who shape the world around them.

At the Bethune Scholarship Foundation, we are proud to support students on their journey from first-generation scholars to future leaders. Together, we can ensure that education remains a pathway to possibility for this generation and the next.

Because when one student succeeds, the future becomes brighter for us all.

College Partnership Laboratory School Fund? Read More

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 17:25:48 GMT

HOW VA Schools are Stimulating Innovative Programs in Preschool through Grade 12

S ection 22.1-349.1(B) states that Lab Schools are designed to:

Stimulate innovative programs in preschool through grade 12;
Provide opportunities for innovation in instruction and assessment;
Provide teachers with an avenue for delivering innovative instruction and school scheduling, management and structure;
Encourage performance-based educational programs;
Establish high standards for both teachers and administrators;
Encourage greater collaboration between pre-kindergarten and postsecondary program providers; and
Develop model programs.

Additional details about enrollment, governance structures, and accountability can be found in § 22.1-349.3 et seq. Lab Schools are subject to all federal and state laws and regulations and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion, ancestry, or need for special education services.

Lab Schools are designated as public schools in Virginia. Like all public schools in the Commonwealth, Lab Schools are subject to the Standards of Learning (§ 22.1-253.13:1 ), Standards of Accreditation ( 8VAC20-131 ), and Standards of Quality (§§ 22.1-253.13:1 et seq.). Additionally, teachers must be licensed by the Board of Education or, in the case of instructors in educator preparation programs, be eligible for a Virginia teaching license.

College Partnership Laboratory School Fund

Section 22.1-349.2 of the Code of Virginia establishes the College Partnership Laboratory Fund (the Fund) for the purposes of establishing or supporting Lab Schools. During its 2022 Special Session, the General Assembly appropriated $100 million into the Fund to be allotted for the following uses:

$5 million for planning grants to support eligible entities in the design of new college Lab Schools and to assist in drafting and submitting a Lab School application to the Board.
$20 million for initial start-up grants for approved Lab Schools to make one-time purchases for expenses necessary to launch a Lab School.
$75 million (or the balance of the fund) for per-pupil operating grants to support ongoing expenses for the operation and maintenance of a Lab School.

Additional information on each grant program and for applying for grants from the Fund can be found in the sections below.

SOURCE: Department of Education

Local career-switcher program can help get teachers into the classroom

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 14:05:31 GMT

Local career-switcher program can help get teachers into the classroom

If you ask little kids what they want to be when they grow up, many of them will answer “a teacher.”

Teaching is often the first career a child is introduced to and “teachers are often the people who have the most influence on your life,” said Dennis Keffer, director of Shenandoah University’s extended and distance education program.

A lot of us move on to different career aspirations as we grow older, but sometimes that childhood goal continues to be a calling, even after we’ve gone the doctor, lawyer or engineer route.

Virginia’s career-switcher program —an alternative route to teacher licensure—can get those people into a classroom within five months.

“Mature teachers bring life experience into the classroom,” said Keffer, who has spent 45 years in education as a teacher, administrator and program director. “I’ve had doctors and lawyers go through the program. People as old as 69 have gone through the program and gotten jobs in classrooms.”

Virginia’s career-switcher program was developed initially for people exiting the military, but was opened up to everyone in the early 2000s as a teacher shortage began to loom, Keffer said.

Shenandoah University offers a career-switcher program in Fredericksburg, with classes meeting twice per week at James Monroe High School.

Anyone with a bachelor’s degree and three years of work experience—stay-at-home parenting counts—is eligible to apply for the program after passing either a Praxis test or the Virginia Communication and Literacy assessment, Keffer said.

There are two phases to the program, Keffer said. The first consists of classroom instruction on foundations of education, curriculum and instruction, classroom management, human growth and development, technology, methods and special education, followed by a 40-hour practicum that includes 30 hours of teaching.

Upon completion of the first phase—which through Shenandoah costs $4,995, including textbooks and materials—students are eligible for a Virginia career-switcher provisional license.

This license differs from a regular provisional license in that it is good for one year, can be renewed three times and goes dormant until the student is hired to a teaching position, Keffer said.

The student has successfully completed Phase 2 of the career-switcher program after he or she has taught for 160 days under contract with a Virginia public school district or accredited private school and attended four out of five professional development opportunities taught at Shenandoah.

The career switcher is then eligible for a 10-year renewable teaching license.

Keffer said 60 students went through Phase 1 of Shenadnoah’s program—which is offered in Winchester, Fredericksburg and Leesburg—last year.

In prior years, there have been as many as 140 across the three locations, but enrollment is down, as it is in teacher preparation programs across the country.

Enrollment has been declining for over a decade, according to information reported by the states to the U.S. Department of Education as required by the Higher Education Act .

In Virginia, total enrollment in teacher prep programs has declined from 13,548 in academic year 2008–09 to 8,777 in 2019–20, according to the DOE.

Only two students are enrolled in Shenandoah’s career switcher program at the Fredericksburg location this fall, Keffer said.

“I’d hate to see the program die here,” he said.

Keffer said the career-switcher program allows prospective teachers to find out if the profession is for them quickly and without the investment of time and money that a traditional college teacher preparation program requires.

And teachers who go through the career switcher program often stay local, he said.

“Very often, students are invested in the community,” Keffer said. “Their kids go to school here, they go to church here.”

Keffer said that not only is teaching “a great profession” that deserves respect, but it’s a way to contribute to the greater good.

“I had a hospital CEO go through the program,” he said. “He told me, ‘Life has been good to me, and I want to give back.’ You can make a difference.”

Old Dominion University, Regent University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and several community colleges—though not Germanna—also offer VDOE-certified career-switcher programs.

SOURCE: The Free Lance-Star

The Virginia Plan Goals

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 20:45:05 GMT

The Virginia Plan Goals

In fall 2020, the Council established three goals for higher education: it should be equitable, affordable and transformative. The complete goals and strategies for Pathways to Opportunity: The Virginia Plan are shown below.

Goal 1 Equitable: Close Access And Completion Gaps

Remove barriers to access and attainment especially for Black, Hispanic, Native American and rural students; students learning English as a second language; students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds; and students with disabilities.

Corresponding Strategies

S1: Expand postsecondary opportunities and awareness to Virginians who may not view higher education as an option.
S2: Advance digital access, adoption and literacy, as well as high-quality, effective remote-learning programs.
S3: Strengthen student support services for persistence and completion: mental health, mentoring, career services, social, student basic needs, information technology, disability support and other services.

Goal 2 Affordable: Lower Costs To Students

Invest in and support the development of initiatives that provide cost savings to students while maintaining the effectiveness of instruction.

Corresponding Strategies

S4: Align tuition and fees, financial aid and state appropriations such that students have broader access to postsecondary education opportunities regardless of their ability to pay.
S5: Cultivate affordable postsecondary education pathways for traditional, non-traditional and returning students.
S6: Update and reform funding models and policies to improve equity, affirm return on investment and encourage increased and consistent levels of state funding.
S7: Foster program and administrative innovations that enhance quality, promote collaboration and improve efficiency.

Goal 3 Transformative: Expand Prosperity

Increase the social, cultural and economic well-being of individuals and communities within the Commonwealth and its regions.

Corresponding Strategies

S8: Support experiences that improve students’ employment outcomes, income and community engagement.
S9: Improve the alignment between post- secondary academic programs and labor market outcomes.
S10: Cultivate a climate of inclusion and innovation through scholarship, research, a diverse faculty and other programming.

These goals are the framework for The Plan’s 10 strategies and five measures as well as the vision of “Best State for Education” and overall target of 70% educational attainment of all 25 to 64-year old working-aged Virginians.

SOURCE: SCHEV.EDU

Virginia Students Win First and Second Place Prizes in National Microsoft Championships

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:16:47 GMT

RICHMOND — Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow today congratulated two Virginia winners in last month’s 2022 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship competition in Dallas.

Wendy Zheng, a student at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, won first place and a $3,000 prize in the Microsoft Excel category by earning passing scores on the Microsoft 365 Apps and Microsoft Office 2019 certification exams. Zeng now has the opportunity to participate in the July 24-27 Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship in Anaheim, California.

Justin Henley, a student at New Kent High School in New Kent County, placed second and earned a $1,500 prize in the Microsoft Word category with a passing score on the Microsoft Office 2016 certification exam.

“I congratulate both of these career-ready Virginia students for their accomplishments during this rigorous national competition,” Balow said. “I also congratulate the teachers and mentors who have encouraged and challenged them along the way.”

Zheng and Henley were among 85 state finalists from across the country who participated in the June 20-22 competition.

In 2017, John Dumoulin, a former student from Forest Park High School in Prince William County, became the first American to win the World Championship Excel trophy at the Microsoft World Championship.

The Microsoft Office Specialist program is presented by Certiport, a Pearson VUE business and provider of performance-based IT certification exams.

SOURCE: VA DOE

Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune statue unveiled at U.S. Capitol

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 14:41:09 GMT

A statue of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune of Florida became the first likeness of an African American to represent a state in the National Statuary Hall Collection.

Adding to the significance, her statue replaces a likeness of a Confederate general.

Bethune was a pioneer for the advancement of African American women and their education.

Master sculptor Nilda Comas was chosen out of 1,600 artists to create Bethune’s statue.

"Some of the things that I learned was so much about what she accomplished, but some of the things that I really like about her personality, is that she was so kind so sensitive," Comas said. "And she kept her goals always in mind, but not hurting anyone.

She just acted out of love and respect and her ideals."

In 1904, Bethune founded what is now Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach.

Four years ago, then-Gov. Rick Scott signed legislation to commission her statue to replace the figure of Confederate general Edmund Kirby Smith, which that had stood at the capitol nearly a century.

Comas created the Bethune's sculpture in Italy with marble that came from the same location Michelangelo sourced stone from to create his sculpture of David.

She said her creation of Bethune has many symbolic features.

"She's dressed in cap and gown because she represents education," Comas said. "That was her biggest goal and what got her where she got to accomplish so many other things for civil rights."

Also of significance is the black rose Bethune is holding. Comas said Bethune first saw black roses during a visit to Switzerland and marveled at their beauty.

The project was largely made possible by Central Floridian and Philanthropist Nancy Lohman, who helped raise just under $1 million for the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Statuary

Fund, which she chairs.

She says Bethune represents the best of Florida.

"Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune was considered one of the mothers of the struggle," Lohman said. "She was a suffragette. She fought for women's rights. She was a civil rights activist. She fought for equal employment opportunities. She fought for education — she championed education — and she realized that education and the advancement of someone's education advanced them socially and economically."

As Bethune takes her place in history, so will Comas. There are 100 figures in the National Statuary Hall Collection, two representing each state.

While the statues have changed over the years, Comas is the first Hispanic artist to sculpt one of them.

"I hope she's in heaven looking at us and saying, 'I love it,'" Comas said.

SOURCE: MY NEWS 13

Bethune’s legacy is continuing to support students

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 14:58:58 GMT

Bethune’s legacy is continuing to support students

The main objective of the Mary M. Bethune Alumni and Associates is to award scholarships to local high school students regardless to race, creed or color.

This resulted in the formation of the Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc. in 1978. The foundation is a separate 501(c)3 nonprofit, tax-exempt organization that has as its goal to raise $500,000 in sustaining funds.

These sustaining funds are needed to ensure scholarships are continued for years to come.

When the last graduate of Mary M. Bethune High School is gone, the school’s name will continue to survive because of the Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc.

The first scholarship was awarded to Lisa Logan in 1978. Four scholarships were awarded in 1979 to the following graduates: John H. Carter, Sarah Catherine Brown, Felicia Abbott and Coolidge Hamlett. The four were recognized during the class day activities.

After 44 years, the Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc. has awarded $112,000 to 157 deserving students.

There are local Mary M. Bethune Alumni and Associates chapters in Washington, D.C., Maryland, New York/New Jersey, Richmond and Halifax County. Presently each of these local chapters plus the national chapter raise money each year for scholarships to support the Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc.

In 1998, Marie Claiborne Williams-Turbeville, a local humanitarian and retired teacher, donated $10,000 to the Bethune Scholarship Inc. This has been the largest donation by an individual to the foundation and her gift helped to inspire others to give.

Her desire to help enhance the lives of local high school students in obtaining a higher education prompted her to give to the Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc.

Beginning in 2001, the Marie C. Williams-Turbeville Scholarship is given in her name.

The Bethune Scholarship Foundation’s general board has two continuous fundraisers: the Gift Campaign 2021-30 and the bi-annual Charity Golf Tournament. The first bi-annual golf tournament was held in June 1998 at Green’s Folly Golf Club. Supporters have been the Mary M. Bethune Alumni and Associates, former recipients of the scholarship, alumni, friends, local businesses, industries, organizations, the local hospital and area churches.

From 2004 to 2016, the bi-annual charity golf tournaments were held at Wedgewood Golf Center. In 2014, one tournament player won a $17,000 on the hole-in-one.

This year’s charity golf tournament will be held Friday. The registration site is the Wedgewood Golf Center at 2131 Mountain Road in Halifax. Show time is 8 a.m. at Greens Folly Golf Course located at 2131 Mountain Road Halifax.

The fee for tournament golfers of $50 includes lunch. There are prizes available and trophies to the first and second place teams. A hole-in-one will win a 2022 Volkswagen Jetta. Other prizes include a $500 Mastercard Gift Card and Omaha Steaks for a year and set of Callaway Irons.

The first 12 youth who register will have their registration fees waved.

There are also contests at Wedgewood Golf Center. The fee for contest participants of $15 includes lunch. There are prizes for the following contests: cornhole; putting contest; shoot out contest; pickleball; running challenge women; walking challenge women; running challenge men; and walking challenge men.

Those who cannot participate in this golf outing may still show support for the Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc. by sponsoring as a copper sponsor ($50); a bronze sponsor ($100); a silver sponsor ($500); a gold sponsor ($2,000); a platinum sponsor ($4,000); a diamond sponsor ($5,000) or by making a donation.

SOURCE: The Gazette Virginian

Alexandria schools superintendent calls new Virginia education report 'very misleading'

6122ee457d22433199917c73 — Thu, 26 May 2022 21:10:41 GMT

The Virginia Department of Education released the report, titled “Our Commitment to Virginians: High Expectations and Excellence for All Students", last week

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (7News) — The superintendent of Alexandria City Public Schools is voicing criticism and concerns about a new Virginia Department of Education report released late last week.

Va. Gov. Glenn Youngkin and his top education officials released the 34-page report on Thursday, May 19.

The report, titled “Our Commitment to Virginians, High Expectations and Excellence for All Students," says Virginia public school students are falling behind national education standards, and in part, blames state policy choices made by previous administrations and leaders in the Commonwealth.

"Decisions made at the state level created confusion in Virginia education and downplayed troubling trends," Jillian Balow, Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction, wrote in the report. "It is noteworthy that the rhetorical emphasis on equity coincided with the widened gaps in student achievement. And now, decisions at the state level must correct those errors and reverse these disturbing trends."

The report also says Virginia is "facing declines in student performance that started long before the pandemic and were illuminated and exacerbated over the last two years."

7News spoke to Youngkin and VDOE officials about the report last week . Now, we're hearing the perspective of a Virginia school district superintendent.

"I think the biggest concern is how the information was shared out. It was in a sense very misleading, especially when we are talking about NAEP data," said Dr. Gregory Hutchings, who has served as superintendent of Alexandra City Public Schools since July, 2018.

NAEP is the National Assessment of Educational Progress . Hutchings said he feels the VDOE "cherry picked" NAEP data for this report.

"NAEP is the nation's report card. I think it's important for anyone referencing NAEP to not cherry pick the data. When you do that, you're going to tell whatever story you want, and I think that is where it can be misleading," Hutchings said. "Any person can look at the NAEP information for themselves, and you will see that Virginia consistently is scoring higher than most states across this country, and I think that's a key point."

7News took that criticism to Youngkin's office and the Virginia Department of Education.

In an emailed response, VDOE Director of Communications & Constituent Services Charles Pyle defended the data used in the department's report:

But the data is just one element of the report that Hutchings says he takes issue with.

In a news conference announcing details of the report last week, state education officials pointed to widening achievement gaps for students of color and students who are from low income households.

"The pandemic also exacerbated long-standing achievement gaps, resulting in Black, Hispanic and economically disadvantaged students falling farther behind," the report says.

Hutchings agrees with those findings, but he also says it's not a new problem.

"We have known that we've had disparities between our Black and Brown students and their white counterparts throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia for several years," Hutching said, adding that work was done under the administration of former Virginia Governor Ralph Northam to try to begin to address the issue. "Part of the work that our EdEquity Virginia program did was specially looking at those inequities as well as data showing a huge achievement gap, so this is not new information."

He feels the VDOE report fails to outline a specific plan to address those inequities.

"The question I have is, 'where are the conversations around what we do about this work?' Because the former administration did seek to find results and solutions for this data, and specifically it focused on equity. And unfortunately, I didn't hear the word equity used at all last week, which is very concerning to me," Hutchings said.

The governor's office and VDOE did not provide a direct answer to 7News' inquiry asking for a response to Hutchings' concern about the importance of focusing on equity in schools.

"Leaders changed definitions, they lowered expectations, and they reduced the importance of proficiency in determining school quality and accreditation. And they often did this in the name of equity," Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera said during

Thursday's news conference, referring to previous state leadership in Virginia. "President Bush used to refer to this as the soft bigotry of low expectations. I call it plain wrong."

On the website for Alexandria City Public Schools , the school district says ACPS "places racial equity at the center of everything that we do as a school division." Hutchings says that work will not be deterred.

"In Alexandria, we define it as meeting students where they are," he said. "I think we also need to understand that equity is going to ensure that a child's circumstance and specifically their race does not define what they can or can't do. And it doesn't define their future. And that requires us to do different things for different students."

Hutchings said he would welcome the governor and Virginia Department of Education officials to visit Alexandria and see the equity work being done within the ACPS school system.

"Come and see the school systems that are taking action, and leading with racial equity at the heart of their work," he said. “I would love to be able to have a seat at the table to work with your administration to provide a different perspective. It doesn’t mean that everything I have to offer is the only way, but I think it gives a different perspective that needs to be heard, so that we can make a difference for all children."

7News asked the governor's office whether Youngkin would be open to that, but we have not yet heard back.

'We all know that the one size fits all model doesn't work," Youngkin said during last week's news conference. "We also must continue to support innovation across the Commonwealth including labs schools, government schools, magnet schools charter schools."

In the VDOE report's forward, the Superintendent of Public Instruction wrote that since Jan. 15, she has "traveled to multiple school divisions, talked with teachers, built an understanding of the issues, and collaborated with leaders."

SOURCE: WSET

From a training school to Bethune High School: a history

Mon, 23 May 2022 14:51:20 GMT

Scholarship foundation keeps the Bethune school spirit alive

From the Halifax County Training School, 1920 – 1956 To the Mary M. Bethune High School, 1956 – 1969 To the Mary M. Bethune Scholarship Foundation, Inc. 1978 (Article 1 of 2) The Halifax Training School had its beginning when the County School Board purchased the existing facilities from the Banister Baptist Association in 1920. It had four principals during its period of existence. Mr. Herman Sykes was the first principal. Following his tenure as high school principal, he served as an elementary principal and as head of the agriculture program when it was introduced. Mr. Louis Anderson became principal in 1932 and served for one year. Miss Marian McCown followed and served until William C. Edwards came in 1934. W. C. Edwards served until his retirement in 1966. In the 1920’s the school year was five months beginning about October, and salaries were $25.30 per month. In 1948, consolidated schooling began in Halifax County when Booker T. Washington High School of South Boston was merged into the Halifax Training School in the town of Halifax. This merger and other expansion at the Training School site was influenced by Dr. Fred M. Alexander, State Supervisor of Negro Education, State Department of Education, and Dr. Sidney B. Baff, State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

An addition to the “T” shaped building forming the “H” shaped was completed in 1948 to accommodate the children from Booker T. High School. Later, the Vocational and Agriculture Building was completed. In 1955, the two-story building just south of the “H” shaped building was completed. It gave Black children their first official cafeteria, a gymnasium, expansive library, fully equipped science laboratory and authentic home economics class space. Following an evaluation of the school and its program in 1951, William C. Edwards, the principal, requested permission from the Board to change the name of the school and was instructed to make the plans for such change. The preparation including informing all of the Black citizens and soliciting their support and approval. At least ten names, some of them local persons, were originally proposed. The list was narrowed to the following two: Doctor Charles D. Drew and Mary M. Bethune. In a meeting of Black representatives these two names were voted on. The vote was a tie, 6 - 6. The principal broke the tie when he voted for Mary M. Bethune. With the tie broken, Dr. Leon V. Ragland moved that this name be submitted to the Board as a unanimous choice. The name of the high school for Black children was changed in 1956. On January 15, 1956, the plant was officially dedicated as Mary M. Bethune High School of Halifax County In the 50’s, it was “the state’s largest rural Negro high school. After W. C. Edwards retired in 1966, Lazarus Bates became principal until integration took place in 1969. Following integration, Mr. Bates served as principal until he retired, in the same building of the integrated junior high school.

After integration in 1969, the school became the Halifax County Junior High School and served the entire county school population until the 1979 - 80 school year. During a visit to his former high school — after integration — Emmett O. Green, class of `56, discovered a need to preserve the school’s history of education in Halifax County. He had a vision of forming an alumni association. Emmett called other graduates from Halifax County living in the Washington metropolitan area and shared his concerns regarding the forming of an alumni association. On Saturday, July 28, 1973, the first official meeting of the Mary M. Bethune Alumni and Associates was held in Washington, D.C. Those present at the first meeting were: Emmett and Pam Green, Agnes and Von Poindexter, Mary and Richard Lee, Jean Coleman Contee, Faye Brewer Taylor, Phyllis Pannell Wilkerson, Rose Crawley Adams, Geraldine Sadler Washington, J.P. Logan and John Lee. Emmett Green was elected president. Area Chairpersons from sixteen cities and towns were appointed to coordinate the first reunion that was held on Saturday, June 29, 1994. There were over one thousand in attendance. It was decided that the next reunion would be held in 1976, and every other year thereafter. The Executive Board met in 1975 and made the decision that member- ship fees will be $10 a year. Major objectives of the association were to encourage alumni in various areas to establish local Mary M. Bethune Alumni Chapters, to establish a Bethune Scholarship, to establish a historical Mary M. Bethune Trophy Case and to finance our history book. The book, The History of the Education of Black Citizens in Halifax County: 1866-1969, written by W.C. Edwards, Preston M. Royster and Lazarus Bates was published in 1979. Copies are still available.

Membership of the Mary M. Bethune Alumni and Associates will consist of: persons who attended Bethune or other high schools which were established for educating Black residents of Halifax County, persons employed in these schools, spouses of the above, and other residents of Halifax County-South Boston who are interested in affiliating and assisting in implementing the purposes and objectives of this organization. The alumni association’s main objective was to award scholarships to local high school students regardless to race, creed or color. Because of this objective, in 1978 the Mary M. Bethune Scholarship Foundation Inc. was formed. The Foundation is a separate 501(c)3 non-profit, tax-exempt organization that has as its goal to raise $500,000 in sustaining funds. These sustaining funds are needed to ensure scholarships are continued for years to come. When the last graduate of Mary M. Bethune is gone, the school’s name will continue to survive because of the scholarship foundation.

SOURCE: THE NEWS & RECORD n SOUTH BOSTON/HALIFAX COUNTY, VA

$34 million in grants to improve mathematics and literacy in Virginia

Sat, 11 Dec 2021 20:50:34 GMT

$34 million in grants to improve mathematics and literacy in Virginia

Grants will help K-12 students and schools recover from the pandemic

RICHMOND, Va. – Public colleges and universities in Virginia have the opportunity to apply for grants that total to $34 million to develop resources and professional development programs for reading and mathematics teachers.

The Onward and Upward: Supporting Literacy and Mathematics grant program recognizes the disruption of the pandemic on learning and strives to help each student succeed.

“This grant opportunity represents a challenge and opportunity for our partners in higher education to develop resources and programs specifically for these extraordinary times and help our K-12 students and schools recover from the pandemic,” said James Lane, superintendent of public instruction with the Virginia Dept. of Education. “The need is urgent and the criteria for awarding grants reflects VDOE’s commitment to promoting and supporting what works in helping students grow academically and achieve grade-level proficiency.”

The grants will specifically provide support for K-12 literacy and mathematics instruction to address unfinished learning across Virginia through the development of high-quality, evidence-based instructional resources, materials, and professional development.

All of Virginia’s two and four-year higher education institutions are eligible to apply for the grants, and private institutions may participate in partnership with public institutions.

The deadline for institutions to submit an application to the Virginia Department of Education is Jan. 28, 2022.

SOURCE: WSLS NEWS

Arlington NAACP bestows scholarship awards

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 00:00:18 GMT

Arlington NAACP bestows scholarship awards

The Arlington branch of the NAACP honored its 2021 scholarship recipients at the organization’s annual Freedom Fund banquet, held online Oct. 28.

Recipients of the Willard Woodson Brittain Jr. Foundation Scholarship Award included Abel Geleta (Yale University); Rylei Porter (Belmont University); Takier George (Howard University); Dulanda Saintcyr (Virginia Commonwealth University); Sophia Nowlin (Bowie State University); Dexter Merritt Jr. (University of Maryland, Baltimore County); and Jessica Pressley (Loyola University).

Recipients of the Arlington NAACP Future Leaders Scholarship Award were Joana Agboka (Virginia Commonwealth University); Chelsea Figaro (North Carolina A&T University); Alexander Hall (University of Virginia); Elena Ogbe (James Madison University); and Belen Tesfaye (Northeastern University.

Arlington NAACP one-time scholarship awards were presented to Celeste Clark (Duke University) and Kira Harrison (Virginia Tech).

SOURCE: INSIDE NOVA

Chamber awards recognize businesses, young professionals, educators

6122ee457d22433199917c73 — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 17:30:11 GMT

Chamber awards recognize businesses, young professionals, educators

DANVILLE, Va. — The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards event was held virtually on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021.

The chamber recognized three Young Professionals PACE (professional and community engagement) award winners. Averett University, in partnership with the chamber, awarded the 2020-21 educators of the year.

Also honored were two outstanding businesses with the Pinnacle and Pinnacle Small Business Awards.

Barry DuVal, president and CEO of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, offered remarks on Blueprint Virginia 2025, which engaged over 6,000 business and community leaders from around the commonwealth. This action plan outlines strategies for strengthening Virginia’s economic competitiveness and getting Virginia back to the top of business climate rankings.

Three young professionals were honored as PACE award winners. The chamber created the Professional and Community Engagement Awards to showcase exceptional young professionals in the Dan River Region. This year’s winners were Maggie Richardson, The Health Collaborative; A.J. Harper, Danville Otterbots; and Amanda Schlichting, Dewberry.

This year, 29 teachers were recognized as educator of the year winners from their schools, and three were selected from that pool each to receive a $2,500 stipend, generously provided by the Danville Regional Foundation. The winners were Gordon Thompson, OT Bonner Middle School; Dr. Jessica Jones, Tunstall High School; and Kellie Knapp, Tunstall Middle School.

The chamber’s board created the Pinnacle Small Business Award in 2019 to recognize excellence in businesses with fewer than 25 employees. The winner is distinguished as a small business or organization that contributes to the economic vitality and quality of life in the region through innovative, ethical business practices, professionalism and strong community involvement. It is the highest honor awarded to a small business by the chamber, and this year was awarded to Leggett Town and Country.

Leggett Town and Country was founded in 2002 as a local family-owned retail store featuring premium quality merchandise. Year-over-year growth in revenue, net income and employment opportunities are the result of innovative retail strategies and the expansion of the market area through outside sales, e-commerce, social media marketing and web portals for commercial customers.

This business has been a corporate sponsor and participant in the SOS program at George Washington High School. Strong supporters of the community, the owners have served on committees for the City of Danville and Danville Public Schools. The store annually sponsors fundraisers for the Danville Life Saving Crew, the Danville Pittsylvania County Cancer Association and Christmas Bucks for Kids.

This business received the Hamilton Carhartt Retailer of Excellence Award, and the chamber was proud to award them the 2021 Pinnacle Small Business Award.

The chamber board created the Pinnacle Award in 2011 to recognize a business or organization whose outstanding achievements serve as a model for success. In addition, a nominee is respected throughout the community for commitment to the chamber’s values, which include excellence, integrity, transparency, collaboration and diversity, equity and inclusion. It is the highest honor awarded by the chamber, and this year’s recipient is the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR).

IALR stands out most for their vast contributions to our region, beyond the boundaries of Danville and Pittsylvania County. Their focus has and continues to be economic transformation across Southern Virginia. They value accessibility and agility, and these values are at the heart of all of their programs and services.

For almost 20 years, this organization has focused on groundbreaking applied research, outcome-based advanced learning, collaborative and strategic economic development, industry-driven advanced manufacturing training and client-focused conference services. They are at the forefront of our region and lead career-ready initiatives. They build STEM capacity in equitable and inclusive ways to help attract and retain top employers. They create a healthier workforce to improve quality of life, attract and retain employers and promote productivity and robust operations.

This organization leads collaborative innovation to meet and exceed the optimization and workforce needs of new and existing industry for healthy competition in a global marketplace. They merge biology and technology for sustainable agricultural production, lead Virginia’s analytical chemistry testing services with state-of-the-art labs, instruments and expertise, and are expanding knowledge, resources and research for the growing industry of indoor farming. They are powering economic progress for Danville, Pittsylvania County and the rest of Southern Virginia.

The chamber was thrilled to award this year’s Pinnacle to the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research.

"On behalf of our chamber board and members, we extend a heartfelt 'congratulations' to all of our award recipients and thank them for the meaningful contributions they make in our region," the chamber said in a statement.

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce accelerates business growth by connecting its members to dynamic resources and networks. The chamber’s No. 1 goal is to help area businesses of all sizes to grow and prosper. For more information, visit dpchamber.org.

SOURCE: STAR TRIBUNE

$1 million grant will help support special education teachers across Virginia

engr1@ymail.com — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 18:07:03 GMT

$1 million grant will help support special education teachers across Virginia

(WFXR) — The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has received a $1 million grant to help reduce turnover and promote retention of special education teachers.

The funding will give VDOE the ability to build upon efforts supporting the recruitment, development, and retention of special educators.

“Special education has been the commonwealth’s most pressing critical shortage area for 15 consecutive years,” Superintendent of Public Instruction James Lane said in a statement on Tuesday, Aug. 17. “Reducing turnover and retaining special educators is even more critical now as all of the commonwealth’s schools prepare to reopen for in-person instruction and address the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, especially on students with disabilities and other vulnerable learners.”

The money will support efforts in two to three school divisions that are dealing with special educator shortages due to high turnover rates. The grant will focus on creating evidence-based classroom systems, defusing disruptive behavior, and data-informed decision-making practices over the course of the next five years.

“Special education is one of the most rewarding teaching fields but it also can be one of the most challenging,” Lane said. “Our efforts to reduce turnover among special educators are grounded in the research that shows that when teachers are prepared to successfully manage the challenges, they are more likely to stay in the classroom.”

VDOE will announce which school divisions will be participating later this year.

SOURCE: WXFRTV

Troy University fraternity creates new scholarship

info@prowebedit.com (Chad ) — Sun, 15 Aug 2021 17:17:01 GMT

TROY, Ala. (WSFA) - The brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated was the first black Greek-letter organization founded in 1906, standing on the aims of manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind.

The fraternity has been on Troy University’s campus since 1978, providing service to Troy University and the community.

Current and past members want to continue that, and they say having an endowment scholarship will give back to the school and fraternity.

“The scholarship is open to not only current members of Xi Beta but also the children and the grandchildren of anyone who has ever been initiated,” Xi Beta Alumni Association president Kelvin Wallace said.

The scholarship is worth $25,000 and Wallace says that will grow as more members contribute.

Chapter president Jaelin Flemming says its scholarship also preserves the legacy of former members like the former board of trustee member Lamar Higgins.

“I feel like brother Higgins will be very proud of us to see us doing this wonderful thing at Troy, and I hope we keep making him proud,” Flemming said.

They hope this scholarship they’re doing, will spark other NPHC organizations to do the same.

“It creates that pipeline of black students coming into Troy University,” Wallace said.

Members say it not only opens the door, but promotes black culture on the campus of Troy University.

SOURCE: WSFA.COM

Confusing rules, loopholes and legal issues: College vaccination plans are a mess

engr1@ymail.com — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 17:59:27 GMT

Confusing rules, loopholes and legal issues: College vaccination plans are a mess

In just the last two weeks, more than 120 of nearly 400 public and private colleges and universities analyzed by NBC News have added vaccination requirements.

When the coronavirus began to spread around the country last year, most colleges and universities shut their doors. And when they began to reopen in the fall, they did so in piecemeal and convoluted ways.

In some cases, students could live in dorms but had to take classes online. Dining halls were reservation-only. Singing was banned. While some schools avoided major outbreaks, others became hot spots.

The introduction of three Covid-19 vaccines early this year to college populations seemed to present an exit from these patchwork reopenings, which robbed students of a traditional college experience. But an NBC News analysis of rules across the U.S. found that vaccination requirements for students have proven to be just as complicated as the frenetic fall 2020 semester, if not more so.

In Texas, public universities can’t require a vaccination, but private ones can. In Massachusetts, where colleges and universities can mandate Covid-19 vaccinations, 43 of more than 100 had agreed to do so by mid-May. In New York, public universities cannot allow for religious exemptions, while a majority of the state’s private universities can.

That patchwork approach is reflected across the country. An NBC News analysis of more than 500 colleges and universities that are requiring the Covid-19 vaccination found that the vast majority have unclear directives, loopholes or legal complications that are leaving professors frustrated, students unmotivated and a potential public health crisis come fall. To add to the confusion, among all states and jurisdictions, 19 have statewide regulations for public colleges: Seven require vaccinations for students and 12 do not.

Among other findings in the analysis:

Sixty-seven percent of schools in Hawaii and 50 percent in New York require vaccinations.
Schools in 12 states, including Alabama and Florida, which have seen some of the highest numbers of Covid-19 cases in the country, do not require their students to be vaccinated.
All of the 12 states that do not currently require vaccinations at their colleges or universities voted for Donald Trump in the 2020 election.
Georgia has more than 70 colleges and universities, but only eight of them require vaccinations. Of those eight, five are historically Black institutions.
Eighty percent of the schools analyzed allow for religious exemptions from vaccination requirements.
In Michigan, 11 of 15 public colleges and universities remain undecided on requirements altogether.
In the Northeast, 253 schools are requiring vaccinations, compared to 90 schools in the South.

With no federal guidance and legal boundaries that shift by the week, colleges and universities are struggling to implement plans to safely reopen. And while President Joe Biden has said July 4 will mark a return to normal for the country, university administrations will face a vaccination problem on campus that likely won’t go away anytime soon.

Lorine Najjar, 21, a senior at the University of Colorado Denver, hopes schools find a solution.

“I lost my motivation for school,” she said of remote learning. “I understand why people are scared to get the vaccine, but it will help return us to normal life.”

'Bad public health and bad public policy'

The challenge some schools face in vaccination efforts starts at the top: their state’s governor.

As Republican governors waged wars on vaccine passports — documentation of a Covid-19 vaccination that is required to enter certain spaces — colleges found themselves in the crosshairs. The so-called passports are usually discussed in the context of travel or access to large gatherings, but in states like Wyoming and Florida, officials told colleges that a Covid-19 vaccination requirement fell under the “vaccine passport” umbrella.

Nova Southeastern University, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, announced on April 1 it would be requiring a vaccination for all students, faculty and staff prior to returning to campus in the fall. Shortly after, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, on May 3 signed into law a bill barring schools, government entities and businesses from asking for proof of a Covid-19 vaccination.

Two days later, Nova Southeastern was forced to reverse the requirement, which had become illegal.

“I am frustrated with the state,” said Charles Zelden, a professor of history and politics at Nova Southeastern. “They are getting in the way of my classroom, my purpose to educate my students.”

Nova Southeastern was hoping the vaccination requirement would bring a return to normalcy on campus. Now, the school needs a new plan.

“We are having people self-report on a voluntary basis if they have been vaccinated, and once we hit herd immunity on campus, or 80 percent vaccinated, then we will be able to open campus more so, but still not completely,” Zelden said.

Not everyone objects to the change. Aliyah Gomez, 19, a rising sophomore, is happy vaccination is no longer required.

“I was taken aback when I originally read the school was going to require the vaccine,” Gomez said. “It feels a bit pushy and I’m not the only one who thought this was rushed.” Gomez plans to eventually get vaccinated but wants to wait a little while.

States are well within their rights to ban mandates, said Patricia Kuszler, the director of the University of Washington’s Center for Law, Science and Global Health, though she said she would prefer to see vaccination requirements at schools across the country.

Kuszler said the Florida law is “bad public health and bad public policy” but perfectly legal, making local opposition to it difficult.

DeSantis’ office defended that decision in an email to NBC News, saying “vaccine passports reduce individual freedom and harm patient privacy.”

Attempts to require the shot have been complicated by the fact the vaccines remain under emergency authorization, leaving some school administrators waiting on the Food and Drug Administration to learn if they can legally mandate it.

Two Texas universities just 6 miles away from each other are in very different positions. At the University of Texas at Austin, a Covid-19 vaccination can’t be required after Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order banning organizations that receive state funds from doing so. Just across the river, St. Edward’s University, a small, private Catholic school, is requiring students to get vaccinated.

A St. Edward's spokesperson said the governor’s order “did not impact or change the university's policy.”

KK Villarreal, a parent of a St. Edward’s student and an Austin resident, sees the policy as prudent.

“I really don’t see what the fuss is all about,” Villarreal, 55, said. “I’d strongly prefer that everyone get vaccinated, but I actually believe in the science. No one’s head is exploding because all freshmen have to have a meningitis vaccine.”

READ MORE HERE: NBC NEWS

How To Appeal Your Financial Aid Package

engr1@ymail.com — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 17:46:01 GMT

How To Appeal Your Financial Aid Package

College is one of the most financially stressful stepping stones for young adults in the United States.

A four-year degree at a public college can cost an average of nearly $38,000 for in-state students and nearly $96,000 for out-of-state students, according to the College Board. Most students pay less than the sticker price, but the costs usually remain quite steep.

Most schools offer financial aid awards to students to help them afford attendance—but sometimes, it still isn’t enough.

One lesser-known secret of higher education is that you can negotiate financial aid packages. That means even after receiving an offer from a school, you can usually ask for more aid.

Here’s how the process works.

How Financial Aid Packages Work

Filling out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) is a key part of the college application process and will determine what you’re eligible for in both federal and other need-based aid. This paperwork will ask a variety of questions, including about you and your family’s financials, to help determine how much aid you’ll be eligible for from both the federal and state government and the school.

There are two types of financial aid awards a school grants out of its own funds: need-based and merit-based.

Need-based Awards

Need-based awards are granted based on an applicant’s financial situation. Harvard University, for example, states 55% of its students receive need-based scholarships from the institution.

Harvard calculates its grant-based awards by determining parent contribution (a percentage of a parent’s income that can be put toward the student’s school costs, on a sliding scale up to 10%), factoring in student employment opportunities and any outside awards and then covering the remaining need with grant-based funds from the school. These grants don’t have to be repaid. Other universities follow a similar process.

Merit-based Awards

Merit-based awards are given based on achievements, such as academic excellence or dedication to community service. Not all schools grant these awards. Harvard, for example, does not. The University of Southern California (USC) notes that its merit scholarships can range from $2,000 to full tuition for a year.

The Process of Negotiating a Financial Aid Award

Once you receive your financial aid award determination, you might realize that it’s less than you were hoping for. Or, your financial situation may have changed since you originally applied—and now you’re stumped trying to figure out how to pay for what your aid package doesn’t cover.

You can ask your school for more financial aid. While most people will refer to this process as negotiating your financial aid package, most schools will refer to it as appealing the award it offered you.

Brian Walsh, a certified financial planner (CFP) at personal finance and private student loan company SoFi, has worked with families as they navigate the financial aid appeal process. He says since there are two different types of financial aid from schools, there are two different processes to appeal for more aid.

Need-based Appeal

When it comes to need-based appeals, Walsh says, “You’re trying to appeal to the financial aid office for more money, essentially saying that your need is going to be larger than what was reflected when you filled out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).”

In most cases, appealing need-based aid means writing a letter explaining how your situation has changed and providing documentation to prove it. A change in financial situation could be more than just losing a job; according to the University of South Florida’s financial aid appeal FAQ, appeals could also be due to parents getting divorced, incurring extraordinary medical bills or receiving a windfall that was included in your FAFSA but is not recurring.

You’ll also want to include specific dates and amounts of financial obligations you now have, compared to when you originally filled out your FAFSA.

Merit-based Appeal

These appeals can be tougher to make, and some schools don’t consider them. But, in some cases, it can be worth trying to ask for more merit-based aid. Walsh says this process would generally take place with the admissions office, not the financial aid office.

Appealing merit-based aid means you’ll have to prove academic achievement that happened after you initially applied for financial aid. Walsh says scenarios like retaking the ACT or SAT and scoring higher could help you secure more merit-based aid.

Walsh also brings up an interesting anecdote: Some of the families he’s worked with have taken higher financial aid offers from other schools and presented it to their school of choice as documentation in their appeal.

Keep in mind that some schools have specific processes and deadlines for appealing financial aid. Refer to your school’s financial aid website for more information.

3 Tips to Save on Higher Education Costs

Although most students end up paying less than the sticker price to attend college, the costs usually remain high. If college feels out of reach for you financially, consider these tips:

1. Fill Out the FAFSA

According to Walsh, some families choose not to fill out the FAFSA because they think their earnings are too high to qualify for aid. He says not doing so is a huge mistake. The form is due before every school year and calculates how much a student is eligible for in aid such as Pell Grants, work-study programs and loans.

“In reality, a lot of people will get some sort of financial aid,” Walsh says. “I wish everyone would just make sure they took the time and fill out the FAFSA and find out before just disqualifying themselves without any insight.”

2. Fulfill Prerequisites at a Community College First

Community colleges are a fraction of the cost of most four-year universities. One year at a public two-year college for local students is just $3,440, according to the CollegeBoard. Fulfilling prerequisites at a community college can cut down on overall higher education costs—just make sure the university you wish to attend after will accept the previously earned credits.

3. Apply for External Scholarships

If your financial aid award appeal proves unsuccessful, you can still apply for more scholarships from external companies and organizations. Search engines like Scholarships.com allow you to search for awards relevant to your situation, such as scholarships for academic majors and first-generation students.

SOURCE: FORBES