Local lawmakers: Allen County students receive educator scholarship

STATEHOUSE (June 7, 2021) – Local students preparing to become teachers are among this year's recipients of the state's Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to area lawmakers.

The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation supported by State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne), awards $7,500 annually to 200 high-achieving students who commit to teaching in the state for at least 5 years after graduating college.

"By becoming teachers, these scholarship recipients will impact the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of students over the course of their careers," said Carbaugh, a member of the House Education Committee. "Schools and teachers are so important, and we need educators who are committed to mentoring and being role models for young Hoosiers."

According to State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne), more than 400 students applied, and these local students are among this year's 200 scholarship recipients:

• Lily Bohde, New Haven Jr./Sr. High School;
• Chelsea Born, Lakewood Park Christian School;
• Abigail Boyer, Blackhawk Christian School;
• Lillian Buuck, Heritage Jr./Sr. High School;
• Isaac Franco, Hew Haven Jr./Sr.  High School;
• Carter Frecker, Bellmont Senior High School;
• Meghan Janiszewski, Snider High School;
• Tyler Kaiser, Snider High School;
• Sophia Koehlinger, Carroll High School;
• Irene Scudder, Bishop Dwenger High School;
• Emily Stetka, Snider High School; and
• Addison Wasvick, Woodlan Jr./Sr. High School.

"Allen County once again led Indiana with the most recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship," Heine said. "This is further proof that our local schools are instilling the love of learning in their students who are now eager to become educators themselves."

State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) said 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.

"Nearly everyone, including myself, had at least one teacher who changed their lives," Morris said. "These Allen County students will one day inspire others and make a difference in the lives of those in their classrooms."

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

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State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) represents House

District 81, which includes a portion of Allen County.

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State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) represents House

District 85, which includes a portion of Allen County.

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State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) represents House

District 84, which includes a portion of Allen County.

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