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May 25, 2011 | Alison Sawyer

St. Andrew's, Bryan Awards Scholarships to Elementary Students

St Andrews ScholarsOn May 10, eight fifth grade students at Neal Elementary were surprised and delighted with the announcement of the 2011 St. Andrew’s, Bryan Scholar awards. They came up to the stage with proud smiles and excitement to receive their special award that would help boost their college education. 

 

Among the eight students, there are aspiring teachers, lawyers, and surgeons who look forward to fulfilling their education and dreams. All expressed thanks for these scholarships. 

 

Through these scholarships, St. Andrew's is able to show Christ’s love through education and outreach. Four years ago, in May of 2007, St. Andrew’s awarded the first scholarship to Neal Elementary 5th grade students. 38 scholarships have been given in total. The recipients who are selected each year are awarded a $1000 scholarship upon their high school graduation. 

 

“This is a unique program,” said St. Andrew's Scholar coordinator Sarah Ashburn, “and the key is identifying promising students in elementary school.”  We help them prepare for college, and encourage continuing success during middle and high school.

 

Ashburn emphasizes that the goal is to support our neighborhood school, celebrate its excellence and encourage the development of talented students. Students are selected by a faculty committee, who reviews the students academic achievements as well as community involvement. Funds for the scholarships are entrusted to the Bryan ISD Education Foundation in the name of each St. Andrew’s scholar to be awarded, with compound interest, upon graduation from high school.

 

While high school may be a few years down the road, these scholars are already thinking of their education and possible careers.

 

 “I want to be a teacher,” said 2011 St. Andrew’s Scholar Karla Alvarez. “This scholarship helps me, and my mom won’t have to worry about money for college.”

 

Da Ryia Haven, one of the 2011 St. Andrews Scholars, says that she has a better chance of receiving a quality education through this scholarship. “I have been waiting for this day, and am so excited!” Haven said.

 

See video below from Bryan's Living and Learning channel. Story begins at 2:23.

For more information about St. Andrew's Scholars, contact the church at 979.822.5176.