College preparations are underway for many high school seniors in Douglas County and they will not leave empty handed, thanks to the Douglas County Education Foundation (DCEF) and Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID). Both nonprofit organizations continue to contribute to the ongoing academic successes of Douglas County students, helping them acquire scholarships for the future.
Proud parents recently witnessed their academic scholars receive special recognition during the
DCEF annual scholarship reception held at the Douglas County School System’s Central Office. Thanks to the foundation’s support and its generous donors, students were awarded $52,500 in scholarships.
The college-bound seniors were all smiles as they anticipated hearing their names announced at the well-attended event. Freddie Falcon shared in the exciting celebration, dancing and posing for photos with scholarship recipients as they were called to the podium.
Douglas County Education Foundation Executive Director Angelia O’ Neal expressed sincere gratitude for the scholarship donors who graciously make this happen annually for deserving high school seniors.
"It is always an honor and a pleasure to play a positive role in helping jumpstart the future of our young people," O'Neal said. "On behalf of the Douglas County Education Foundation (DCEF), we truly thank our scholarship donors for entrusting us to administer their scholarship funds to well deserving high school seniors graduating from the Douglas County School System.”
Scholarship donors and other reviewers notified each scholarship honoree based on submitted applications. With many of the scholarships being renewable, students will receive awarded funding each semester or year they are in school to assist them in achieving their academic dreams.
“I encourage more local residents and businesses to consider partnering with DCEF and establish a scholarship to help enlarge our capacity and reach more students in our communities,” O’Neal added.
Over the course of its inception, DCEF has granted a total of $400,000 in scholarships.
AVID Coordinator at New Manchester High School Tahira Chandler also recently honored scholarship recipients for collectively being awarded over $10 million in financial rewards through the Advancement Via Individual Determination Program (AVID). Parents filled the NMHS theater with pride as various school leaders presented their scholars with a scholarship certificate and goodie bag.
Chandler expressed enthusiasm for the promising future of the AVID class of 2024. 
“The AVID class of 2024 has been a joy to teach from the first day that they walked through my classroom door," Chandler said. "They are hardworking, tenacious, talented, and kind. I am so proud of their many accomplishments throughout their journey here at New Manchester and I look forward to witnessing their future greatness. I love them all with my whole heart.”
AVID’s mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. New Manchester High has housed the program since 2017.
Overall, the program focuses on teaching students organizational skills, instruction and college-bound culture.
