The Springfield School District and the Clark State Foundation have awarded college tuition to 41 students expected to graduate from Springfield High School.
The Champion City Scholars Program targets low-income middle school students who will become the first in their families to earn a college degree. Selected students are eligible for up to three years of college at Clark State or assistance with tuition at another college—but they have to commit early to graduating from high school.
Clark State President Dr. Jo Alice Blondin says the program, which has been going for nearly 11 years, prepares kids for opportunities they might not have had.
"Some of these students may chose to go other paths. Some of them may go directly into employment after high school, or they might go into the military," Blondin said. "But the goal is for them to come to Clark State or go into college."
The students and their parents sign a contract committing to stay enrolled in school, maintain good grades and exhibit exemplary citizenship.
The Champion City Scholars work with volunteer mentors from eighth grade all the way through their third year of college. They also participate in special academic programs during the summer.