By Eric Valentine
To break stereotypes about scholarships and to better inform students and families about the costs of college, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting the Valley’s education system will be holding its first-ever scholarship fair.
On Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m., the Blaine County Education Foundation (BCEF), with support from the Wood River Women’s Foundation and Cox Communications, is hosting the First Annual Scholarship Fair for middle and high school students and parents. All students in the Valley are welcome.
The purpose of this event is to familiarize students and parents with the local scholarships available in our community and reduce the stress involved with the next step after high school.
“It’s a really big deal,” said Kristy Heitzman, BCEF executive director. “These local scholarships can make a huge difference for a student attending a four-year school of their choice. Every dollar helps. Not only financially but also for a student’s confidence.”
At the fair, information will be provided on scholarships, financial aid, colleges and trade schools. It is open to middle school students and their families, as it is important to start preparing early. The school clubs will be selling snacks. The BCEF will provide a booklet summarizing college preparation tips, financial aid and local scholarship opportunities.
Heitzman said the hope is twofold: to dispel myths about which scholarships are worth applying to, and to make sure no families fall through the cracks when it comes to finding help for affording college.
This year there will be at least $100,000 more for local students, thanks to a local student, Jake Gorham, the senior class president at Wood River High School. Heitzman said Gorham on his own reached out to community leaders and businesses, hauling in 10 new scholarships worth more than $100,000 total.
For more information about the fair or if you are interested in establishing or contributing to a scholarship, contact BCEF Executive Director Kristy Heitzman at (208) 578-5449.