NWI lawmakers: Lake County students receive educator scholarship

STATEHOUSE (May 28, 2021) – Local students preparing to become teachers are among this year's recipients of the state's Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to Northwest Indiana lawmakers.

The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation enacted by the Indiana General Assembly, awards $7,500 annually to 200 high-achieving students who commit to teaching in the state for at least 5 years after graduating college.

"The money received from this scholarship can change someone's life," said State Rep. Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron). "These students can use the money to manage their college costs as they meet their goal of becoming teachers here in Indiana."

According to State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point), more than 400 students applied, and these local students are among this year's 200 scholarship recipients:                                                                                                    

• Darvoni Christopher, Calumet New Tech High School;
• Eleanor Davis, Highland High School;
• Mia Depta, Crown Point High School;
• Jenna Milosh, Crown Point High School;
• Allison Peterson, Lake Central High School;
• Jillian Richards, Lowell Senior High School;
• Megan Thomas, Andrean High School; and
• Cecilia Venegas, East Chicago Central High School.

"These students are hard workers who have made our community proud," Olthoff said. "In high school, many may not know exactly what they want to do for a career, but these students are committed to teaching the next generation of Hoosiers, and their futures are bright."

State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) 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.

"Receiving this scholarship is a tremendous accomplishment, and awardees go through a challenging process to be selected," Slager said. "I'm excited for these students to eventually bring their talents back to our communities and serve our students."

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. Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron) represents House District 11,
which includes portions of Lake and Porter counties. 
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Julie Olthoff (R-Crown Point) represents House District 19,
which includes a portion of Lake and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Hal Slager (R-Schererville) represents House District 15,
which includes portions of Lake County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.