Scholarships

Scholarship Essay Required

Long-time educators Patty and Mike Kneale created this annual scholarship to invest in the students of Grand Island Public Schools. Mike, a former school superintendent, and Patty, a former teacher, believe strongly in public education as the foundation of the American Dream. The scholarship is intended for students who work hard and need the additional support to realize their college ambitions.

Amount and Terms

• $1,250/varies x 4 years

Number of Scholarships

• 2

Eligibility

• Must be a graduate of Grand Island Senior High
• Must demonstrate ability to work hard for desired goals
• Must major in Education
• Must demonstrate financial need
• A high school GPA of 2.8 or better

Essay Question

• Write a short statement that answers the following questions (Max 500 words):
  1. Explain your passion for education.  Why do you want to become a teacher?
  2. What obstacles have you overcome to graduate?  How?
  3. What circumstances describe your financial need?  Do you have a financial plan for college?
  4. What are your future plans (college and beyond)?

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.

Terms of Renewal

• Students, who remain in the field of Education and are in good standing, can renew the award for up to four years and the $5,000 total. The student must maintain a post-secondary GPA of 2.75 each semester to continue the scholarship.