The Monroe County Education Foundation on Aug. 12 received a check for $122,768 from CareerSource South Florida for 26 Take Stock in Children scholarships.
The presentation took place at Marathon High School, where MCEF executive director Chuck Licis-Masson was joined by Rick Beasley, executive director of CareerSource South Florida, Monroe County Commissioner Michelle Coldiron, CareerSource South Florida board members, MMHS Principal Wendy McPherson, and TSIC scholar Daniela Gonzalez.
“We are very grateful to CareerSource South Florida for its generous support of our Take Stock program,” said Licis-Masson. “These 26 scholarships will provide the opportunity for deserving Take Stock scholars to pursue a college degree or career certificate.”
“We are proud to make this investment knowing that the future is bright for these deserving students,” said Beasley. “The scholarships will provide students, who may not otherwise have the opportunity, with the tools they need to reach their full potential.”
Take Stock in Children Monroe is the flagship program of the Monroe County Education Foundation that provides mentoring and college/career readiness initiatives to deserving youth from low-income households.
This award will equate to 21 two-year Florida College Plan scholarships and five four-year scholarships. Recipients may choose any public college in Florida to use their scholarships. The scholarships also cover a student’s local fees to alleviate any potential challenges. Program participants in the graduating class of 2024 are eligible to take advantage of this opportunity to further their education.
Current Take Stock in Children student scholar Daniela Gonzalez said she is undecided about where she wants to go to college, but is grateful to know she will have the opportunity to do so.
Take Stock in Children of Monroe County works with economically disadvantaged youth and their families to promote education and offers scholarships to those who successfully complete high school. Once selected, the students sign a contract pledging to stay in school, maintain a C average and stay out of trouble. They also meet regularly with an assigned mentor.
Upon successful completion of the program, Take Stock Monroe scholars receive access to a Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid state-matched scholarship, which covers up to 120 credit hours toward a degree or career certificate. Since 2001, Monroe County Education Foundation has awarded nearly 900 Florida Prepaid scholarships to Take Stock Monroe scholars.More information is at monroecountyedfound.com or 305-293-1546.
