Clark State Scholars Program
The Clark State Foundation has teamed up with several local school districts to identify eligible middle school students who will become the first in their families to earn a college degree. Upon graduation from high school, the students will be eligible for three years of college at Clark State at no cost to the students.
Participating School Districts:
- Springfield City School District (Warren G. Elliott Champion City Scholars)
- Graham Local School District (Champaign County Scholars)
- Urbana City School District (Champaign County Scholars)
- Tecumseh Local School District (Clark County Scholars)
- Clark-Shawnee Local School District (Clark County Scholars)
Eligibility, Expectations and Selection
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
- Has achieved at least a 2.0 grade point average during the fourth quarter of their 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?
Upon selection to the program, all Scholars and their parents/guardians must sign a contract. The contract states the Scholars Program student must 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, exhibit good citizenship, take classes in high school that will prepare the students for college and stay enrolled in the district in which you were inducted. Students can still participate in Scholars if attending 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 pick up an application from the school counselor during September. After submitting an application, students are interviewed and evaluated by an interview team. The top 10 candidates are selected from each participating middle school.
I'm proud to be part of an organization that supports such important educational work in this community. If the Springfield region is going to thrive, we have to assure that our young people have access to a first-class education. Clark State College has demonstrated great sensitivity to this need with creative and effective efforts like the Scholars program. This area is fortunate to have a wonderful educational asset like Clark State.
Looking to become a mentor?
Contributors to the Clark State Scholars Program and other such scholarship programs provide life-changing educational opportunities with far-reaching impact.
Questions? We're here to help!
Scholars Program Director Sara T. Landess Technology and Learning Center