STATEHOUSE (July 7, 2025) – Local students Natalie Hardesty from Shakamak Jr-Sr High School and MarLee Blankenship from Clay City Jr-Sr High School are among this year's recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute).
The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation passed by the Indiana General Assembly, awards a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 per year (up to $40,000 total) to high-achieving high school and college students who agree to teach in an eligible Indiana school for five years. A record-breaking 1,091 students applied for the 2025-2026 Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, with nearly 300 scholarships awarded.
"These scholarships recognize hard work in the classroom and a commitment to teaching," Heaton said. "We're proud of these students for taking the first step toward a rewarding career in education."
Heaton said those qualifying for the scholarship must graduate in the top 20 percent of their high school class, earn a score in the 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT, or have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
To learn more and apply for the next round of scholarships opening in the fall, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher. Questions may be directed to NextTeacher@che.in.gov.
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State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes all of Owen County, and portions of Clay, Monroe and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
