Local Lawmakers: Hendricks County students receive educator scholarship

STATEHOUSE (June 3, 2021) – Local students preparing to become teachers are among this year’s recipients of the state’s Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to Hendricks County legislators.

The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation supported by State Reps. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis), Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) and Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton), awards $7,500 annually to 200 high-achieving students who commit to teaching in the state for at least 5 years after graduating college.

“Everyone remembers their favorite teacher, who made learning fun and helped us navigate life,” said Behning, chair of the House Education Committee. “Our classrooms are led by talented individuals, who not only educate our students, but also inspire the next generation of leaders. These young adults are entering a very rewarding career, and I am certain they will be someone’s favorite teacher one day.”

More than 400 students applied, and these local students are among this year’s 200 scholarship recipients:

• Grace Agan, Plainfield High School;
• Natalia Dickerson, Brownsburg High School;
• Audrey Fox, Cascade Senior High School;
• Emalee Gillespie, Brownsburg High School; and
• Maycee Woods, Plainfield High School.

“This scholarship, secured through a competitive process, will greatly assist these students with college expenses as they prepare to teach in Hoosier classrooms,” Steuerwald said. “Congratulations to these students, as well as to their schools and teachers who clearly made a positive impact on their lives.”

Those qualifying for the renewable scholarship totaling up to $30,000 must graduate in the highest 20 percent of their high school class or earn a score in the top 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT.

“In order to keep our state moving in the right direction, we need strong educators in our local schools,” said Thompson, member of the House Education Committee and a former educator. “Our community is fortunate to have these bright individuals studying to become teachers, and I wish them nothing but the best.”

To learn more and apply for the next round of scholarships opening in the fall, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher.