Kaila Vanicek Memorial Scholarship
High School and former scholarship winners eligible
Scholarship Essay required
Kaila Vanicek’s gift was laughter. Her eyes could laugh as they danced with you, daring you and inviting you to join in the fun. Kaila was non verbal, but social. She enjoyed being around people and is remembered as a happy person with an infectious laugh. Kaila began her affiliation with the Grand Island Public Schools as an infant and was part of the Class of 2008. She was served by many educators, especially in special education who gave her their trademark brand of love. It is in this spirit, that Kaila’s parents, Rhonda Vanicek and the late Mike Vanicek, have established this scholarship fund. The intent is to help future educators develop their skills so that students can attain the same kind of life quality and happiness that Kaila had for herself and inspired in others.
The Kaila Vanicek Memorial Scholarship is intended for students who work hard and need additional support to pursue their education.
Amount and Terms
- $1,000/varies x 1 year
Number of Scholarships
- 1
Eligibility
- Must be a graduate of Grand Island Senior High (current year or preceding 3 years)
- Must major or minor in Education or Special Education. Preference will be given to students seeking a degree in Special Education or Elementary Education
Essay Question
- Write a statement about how you plan on impacting the life of a student with special needs. (Max 500 words)
To Apply
- Complete the online application form at www.gipsfoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships
Deadline
- See scholarship application deadlines at www.gipsfoundation.org/what-we-do/scholarships
Selection Procedure
- Applications will be reviewed by a scholarship selection committee appointed by the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation.
Terms of Payment
- The scholarship will be paid through the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation to appropriate educational institution per scholarship eligibility defined above. Scholarships larger than $500 will be split into equal semester payments.
Claim Scholarship
- The student must provide proof of enrollment (class schedule) and student ID number to the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation for scholarship distribution. Proof of enrollment is needed for each semester covered by scholarship terms. Send proof of enrollment to Kari Price via email to kprice@gips.org, in person at GIPS Administration Building (123 South Webb Road) or via mail to PO Box 4904, Grand Island, NE 68802.
College Students
- Students who have received this scholarship in the preceding 4 years are eligible to apply again if they still meet the scholarship criteria.
