What are
Private Scholarship Programs?The following are answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding private scholarship programs. The answers to these FAQs are intended to provide only an introductory overview of key issues. Links are provide to take you to areas with additional information.
What are
Private Scholarship Programs?
Private scholarship programs provide low-income children with the same educational opportunities that wealthier families enjoy by paying a portion of the tuition for a child to attend a private scholarship school. To qualify, the applicant usually needs to be from a family that qualifies for the federal free-or reduced-price lunch program, living in the district which the program has been set up to serve. There are a variety of such programs around the nation. Student-sponsor programs, boarding school programs, religiously affiliated,, archdiocesan and other Catholic school aid programs, and community scholarship programs have been providing parents a choice for years. Examples abound of organizations, individuals and archdioceses helping out needy children through a variety of programs, but throughout runs a common thread – putting the child above the system and providing the children of all families the opportunity of education already enjoyed by those with wealth.
Where Can I Find Them?
As of August 1999, 79 private scholarship programs nationwide are providing some of America’s most underprivileged families the opportunity to send their children to a school of their choice. States with programs in one or more cities include:
Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin.
For over 57,000 children, this education opportunity means an escape from failing inner-city public schools, and an enhanced likelihood of a productive and successful future. Over 1.25 million children remain on private scholarship program waiting lists because more and more parents – all from low-income backgrounds -- are demanding an alternative to unsafe and low-performing schools. Private scholarship programs are providing better education for their children.
For More Information on Private
Scholarship Programs, Link to: