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Clark State Scholars Program

Clark State Scholars Program

  • Four scholars students sit at round table with their mentor talking. Mentor Session
  • New scholars sit on the Kuss Auditorium stage waiting to be inducted into the program. Scholars Induction
  • Six female scholars pose with their mentor. Scholars

The Clark State Foundation and several school districts in Clark and Champaign County proudly partner to support first-generation, college-bound students! Our Scholars SOAR to success by participating in an immersive, pre-college experience throughout high school. Upon high school graduation and completion of the Scholars Program, each Scholar earns a three-year scholarship to Clark State College.

Our Scholars benefit from mentorship throughout high school. Mentor sessions focus on test-taking, studying, aptitude tests, personal development skills, and other educational topics. Students work with a dedicated community mentor and build meaningful relationships. Scholars visit Clark State College twice a year to explore in-demand careers and educational programs, receive tickets to special Clark State College events, receive comprehensive tutoring, and attend field trips.

  • Springfield City School District
  • Graham Local School District
  • Urbana City School District
  • Tecumseh Local School District
  • Clark-Shawnee Local School District
Who is eligible to apply? An eighth grade student who:
  • Enrolled in the eighth grade in Springfield City Schools, Graham Local Schools, Urbana City Schools, Clark-Shawnee Local Schools or Tecumseh Local Schools
  • Eligible for the free/reduced lunch program
  • Achieve at least a 2.75 grade point average during student’s seventh grade year
  • Neither parent / legal guardian has earned an associate’s or higher level college degree at the time of application
What are the expectations of the Scholars? Scholar Expectations:

Upon acceptance to the program, all Scholars and their parents/guardians must agree to uphold the following criteria throughout their high school career:

  • Maintain a 2.0 or greater grade point average.
  • Maintain 93 percent or better school attendance.
  • Participate in at least 75 percent of the program activities, including attendance at monthly Mentor Sessions.
  • Exhibit good citizenship. (Students must not have been suspended or expelled)
  • Take classes in high school that will prepare Scholars for college.
  • Stay enrolled in the district in which you were inducted.

Students maintain eligibility if they maintain district enrollment and attend Clark-CTC, Global Impact STEM Academy, School of Innovation, or Ohio-Hi Point.

How are the Scholars selected?

Eighth-grade students who qualify for the Scholars Program can complete an application online in the fall. After applying, students are interviewed in person at their middle school. The top 10 candidates are selected from each participating middle school.

There are times in my life when I have wanted to give up, be angry at the people around me, and stop pursuing the things I want to do. Being a scholar has inspired me to be the best version of myself every day despite any circumstances. I am proud to be a Scholar because without such an amazing program, I wouldn't have grown into the human being I am today.

Springfield Scholar

As an educator, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing students reach their full potential and ultimately their personal goals. The Clark County Scholars program comes alongside Clark County students to help them realize their potential and set them on a course for a successful future. Through mentorship and programming, students grow academically and socially on their way to a future about which they are passionate.

Brian Kuhn, Clark-Shawnee Local Schools Superintendent

Questions? We're here to help!

Scholars Program

937.328.6644 vonderhaarm@clarkstate.edu