Voice of the Pend Oreille River Valley - Fall 2022

This issue of Voice is a guide for high school students and their parents and adults wanting to continue their education on applying for scholarships for college/trade schools. There are various groups and agencies around the Inland Northwest that offer support for people who want to further their education.

While there are a lot of opportunities for scholarships, there aren’t a lot of people who apply for them. We hope this guide will inspire you to think about what is possible and how to achieve your goals.

www.pendoreillerivervalley.com

Soroptimist of Newport: Helping girls, women

Soroptimist International of Newport’s Girl of the Month scholarship is open to senior girls attending Newport High School. Applications are typically available at the end of September. Two $750 scholarships are awarded. The scholarship is open to all senior girls at Newport High School.

Applications should include the individual’s resume, which should contain the following information:

*Activities in which the student has been involved in during her four years of high school;

Community activities and projects that she has participated in and/or work history

*At least one letter of reference from a teacher, business person or community member attesting to the student’s ability to get along with others, dependability, etc. This letter may also confirm the student’s involvement in one or more activities previously listed.

A letter of interest includes the following information:

*What are the student’s plans are for the future and information about the information.

*A copy of the student’s transcript, which should include their class ranking and GPA.

All of these documents must be included and submitted to Soroptimist International of Newport at siofnewport@gmail.com or by mail at P.O. Box 1892, Newport, WA 99156.

Live Your Dream Award

The Soroptimists’ Live Your Dream Awards program is a unique education award for women who provide the primary financial support for their families. The Live Your Dream Awards gives women the resources they need to improve their education, skills and employment prospects.

There are three levels of cash awards. Eligible applicants can submit their application August 1 - November 15. There is $1,000 awarded at the local level. Ultimately, a Live Your Dream Award finalist has the potential to receive up to $16,000 to help offset tuition costs, purchase books, get transportation, or find reliable childcare so she can worry less about how to pay her bills and focus on reaching her dreams.

Women are eligible to apply if they:

Provide the primary financial support for themselves and their dependents. Dependents can include children, spouse, partner, siblings and/or parents.

Have financial need.

Are enrolled in or have been accepted to a vocational/skills training program or an undergraduate degree program.

Are motivated to achieve their education and career goals.

Reside in one of Soroptimist International of the Americas’ member countries/territories (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Taiwan, United States of America, Venezuela).

Has not previously been the recipient of a Soroptimist Women’s Opportunity or Live Your Dream Award. Does not have a graduate degree.

Is not a Soroptimist member, an employee of Soroptimist International of the Americas or immediate family of either.

Applicants must apply online at www.soroptimist. org/our-work/live-your-dream-awards/apply-for-the-

live-your-dream-awards.html

For more information regarding either of these two opportunities or questions about the application process, please contact Soroptimist International of Newport at SIofnewport@gmail.com or message the club through the Facebook page at www.facebook. com/siofnewport.

About Soroptimists

Soroptimist is an international organization for business and professional women who work to im -

prove the lives of women and girls, in local communities and throughout the world.

More than 90,000 Soroptimists in about 124 countries and territories contribute time and financial support to community–based and international projects that benefit women and girls. The name, Soroptimist, means “best for women,” and that’s what the organization strives to achieve. Soroptimist of Newport represents Pend Oreille and Bonner Counties.

MINER PHOTO|SOPHIA ALDOUS Soroptimist Karla Linton prepares to pass out some crab at the 2020 Soroptimst Crab Feed. The popular fundraiser has been delayed the last two years due to the pandemic, but there is hope that it will return.

Financial aid applications open Oct. 1

A family of four making up to $107,000 can qualify for aid in Washington

OLYMPIA - With the start of October, people can apply for financial aid for the 2023-24 school year. Applying for financial aid is a crucial first step toward college and career training. Completing a financial aid application opens up more options for the future. This year, a family of four making up to $107,000 can qualify for financial aid in Washington.

In Washington, there are two ways to apply for financial aid. U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens apply for federal and state aid with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). People who can’t file the FAFSA due to immigration status can apply only for state aid with the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid). Students who submit a FAFSA or a WASFA are far more likely to attend college.

In order to receive any state or federal financial aid, students must submit a financial aid application. But far too few students apply for financial aid in Washington. In recent years, only about half of all high school seniors have filed a FAFSA. Many families assume they won’t qualify for aid, but the only way to know for sure is to apply. And with the Washington College Grant (WCG) program, more families qualify than ever before.

WCG gives more money to more people for more kinds of education and training beyond high school. Touted as one of the most generous and flexible programs in the country, WCG helps low- and middleincome people of all ages take their next step. The grant supports students pursuing certificates and degrees, as well as apprentices participating in approved registered apprenticeship programs.

WCG is available to eligible Washington residents, including undocumented students. Grant amounts

vary based on income, family size, and the school or program attended.

The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) aims to increase FAFSA and WASFA completion rates in Washington. WSAC’s 12th Year Campaign is hosting virtual financial aid information and filing events to help families complete applications. More events will be scheduled in the coming months.

It is best to apply for financial aid as soon as possible. Some types of aid are first-come, first-served, and colleges have different deadlines. Applicants need to know the deadlines for the colleges or programs

they want to attend.

Visit WSAC’s Plan Your Future page for more information on financial aid and college and career planning.

The 12th Year Campaign’s goal is to boost college and financial aid application rates and increase educational attainment. This work is made possible through state funding and support from the Washington State Employees Credit Union (WSECU), as well as volunteer support from the Washington Financial Aid Association (WFAA) and many others around the state.

Kalispel Tribe of Indians Scholarship

The Kalispel Tribe of Indians Scholarship will award one $2,000 scholarship to a Newport High School graduate of the class of 2023. The Kalispel Tribal Scholarship is designed to provide support for students planning to continue their education at a community college, apprenticeship program, technical school or 4-year university. Qualifications include strength in a combination of two or more of the following: technical aptitude, scholarship, school and community leadership and the demonstrated desire to continue technical or formal education postgraduation.

The applicant must provide the following information:

* A letter of application stating why they should be selected for this scholarship and their future educational goals and their community activities.

* Two letters of recommendation from a teacher and/or community members that attest to their abilities and character.

* An unofficial and updated transcript.

They are requested to submit four copies of their completed application containing all these items, securely stapled together, by Friday, April 28 at noon, to the counseling office. No late or incomplete applications will be considered.

The Kalispel Tribe of Indians believes in being a positive force in the fabric of the community. As the Tribe continues to grow, they are committed to re-investing in the community’s greatest assets, the people. The Newport Alumni Association thanks them for supporting an NHS graduate.

American Legion Scholarships

Veterans and their family members continue to serve the people in the Henry E. Bergdorf American Legion Post & Auxiliary Unit 155, located in Oldtown.

The Unit’s scholarship program provides financial assistance to veterans and family members of veterans in the pursuit of continued education or skills. The amount is a one-time payment of $500 to up to three eligible recipients.

Eligibility

The American Legion Post & Auxiliary Unit 155 Scholarship Program is for the benefit of all deserving students who desire to advance in higher education or skills or who are currently seeking personal advancement through higher education, trade school, or by joining the military.

The applicant must be, be the child, stepchild, grandchild, step-grandchild, adoptive child, or adoptive stepchild of a veteran of the United States of America. Scholarships will be awarded only to students who desire to advance in their education or trade while attending an accredited institution of higher education and/ or vocational/ technical schools and/ or the military.

All scholarship funds will be released to the recipient’s school of choice or directly to the recipient.

The purpose of this Scholarship Program is to emphasize the image of the youth of America, to safeguard and transmit to posterity, the principles of justice, freedom, and democracy while fostering and perpetuating 100% Americanism.

Submission Criteria

Individual profile/ resume

300+ word essay on patriotism and what it means to you.

Two letters of recommendations (no minimum word requirement).

Submission Details

Deadline: July 25, 2023. Late applications will not be accepted.

Mailing: Please mail application and supporting materials (essay and letters of recommendation) to:

American Legion Auxiliary Post 155 Attn: Scholarship Program PO Box 3544 Oldtown, ID 83822

To receive an application and for more information, please contact Elizabeth Glazier, American Legion Auxiliary Post 155 President at 208-306-2642 or elizabethglazier@outlook.com.

Want to be a firefighter?

Pend Oreille Fire District No. 2 offers a Resident Firefighter Program to ages 18 and older. The primary intent of the program is to provide positive experiences, opportunities and training to people interested in establishing themselves in the fire service. Resident firefighters respond to a variety of calls including medical emergencies, structure fires, motor

vehicle accidents and wildland fires.

The program is designed for a twoyear commitment so the firefighter may earn a variety of training including firefighting, IFSAC Firefighter I, Hazmat Awareness and Operations, NWCG Wildland Firefighter Type 2 and 1, EMT-B and EMT-IV. Many other classes are available including, but not limited to, ice rescue, rope

rescue and officer development.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older

• Must have a Diploma/GED

• Drivers license is required

• Must be able to pass a drug test

• Must be able to pass a background check

• Must reside in a Fire District 2 station

The firefighter is expected to live at the fire station. They are provided living accommodations, basic utilities, a food budget at no cost, and a monthly stipend.

For more information, call 509442-2311 or email pocfire2@pocfd2. org.

COURTESY PHOTO| BRIAN FERRANTE

The Resident Firefighter Program, offered by Pend Oreille Fire District No. 2, allows people hands on experience and learning while also helping with room and board.

Newport Alumni Association offers lots of scholarships

The mission of the Newport Alumni Association is to grant scholarships to graduating students from the public high school in the Newport School District, to provide financial assistance to programs and facilities of the Newport School District and the preservation of historical memorabilia pertaining to the Newport School District, its schools and students. The Newport Alumni Association was formed by the Newport School District School Board to disburse these scholarship funds as a non-profit organization and was established in 1999. It has expanded to preserve memorabilia, newsletters to alumni and the annual all-school reunion.

The Newport Alumni Association wishes the best for the senior class of 2023 and sincerely hopes they are able to realize their potentials and talents.

Linda Mathis Scholarship

The Newport Alumni Association will award the Linda Mathis Scholarship in the amount of $500 to a graduate of Newport High School. This scholarship includes a second year of renewability with confirmation of a 2.5 grade point average in the recipients first year of college.

This scholarship is awarded on the basis of character, ambition and community service. Preference is given to a student going into social services or law.

The applicant must provide the following information:

* A letter of application describing themselves, their

ambitions, their future educational goals and their community activities.

* Two letters of recommendation from a teacher and/ or community member(s) that state the applicant’s abilities, character and ambition.

* An unofficial and updated transcript.

They are requested to submit two copies of their completed application containing all these items, securely stapled together, by Friday, April 28, 2023 at noon to the counseling office. No late or incomplete applications will be considered.

Who was Linda Mathis?

Linda (Philips) Mathis passed away in January 2019. Linda loved school and learning in general. Besides being a graduate of the NHS Class of 1965, she graduated WSU in 1968 with a BA in Sociology, Whitworth University 1975 with a Masters in Education Counseling, EWU in 1979 with a Masters in Social Work. In 1985 she graduated from Gonzaga with her Juris Doctorate. After several related careers, Linda opened Mathis Law Office in Newport, serving the citizens as a family Law and Social Security Attorney from 1991 until 2017.

Linda was married to long-time Newport teacher Jim Mathis. Jim passed away in 2020. Besides being Jim’s wife, Linda was a mother to sons Galen (Class of 96) and Eric, a “grammy” and a special aunt.

The Alumni Association is honored to be a part of this scholarship as the Mathis’ were a huge part of the Alumni Association at one time and continue to be through this scholarship.

Mildred and James Sewell

Endowed Scholarship

The Mildred and James Sewell Scholarship Foundation will award one (1) $1,000 scholarship to an NHS graduate of the class of 2023.

This scholarship will be awarded on the basis of character, grade point average, financial need and ambition.

It will be available to students attending a vocational/technical school or a community college or a fouryear university. Preference will be given to an attendee of Washington State University or Eastern Washington University.

The scholarship will be awarded without regard to gender, ethnic background, religion, physical ability or personal relationship.

The applicant must provide the following information:

A paragraph describing themselves, their ambitions and their qualifications for this award.

Information about their current need for financial assistance for the 2023-2024 school year.

Two letters of recommendation from instructors stating their abilities, character, reliability and ambition.

Two letters of recommendation from the community (minister, employer, etc.) stating their character, reliability and ambition. Letters from family members are not acceptable.

A current grade transcript.

Recent school and/or community activities they are involved in.

The applicant is requested to submit four copies of

their completed application containing the above items, securely stapled together, by noon on April 28, 2023 to the Newport High School counseling office. No late or incomplete applications will be considered. When proof of the winner’s enrollment in the school of their choice is received, the scholarship money will be deposited directly with the financial aid office. The scholarship must be claimed by Dec. 31, 2023 or the money will be forfeited.

Who were Jim and Mildred Sewell?

Mildred Sewell passed away at the age of 91 in 2007. She taught at Cheney Normal (now EWU) two years before marrying Jim in 1939. They were married for 68 years. She was active in the PEO, Newport Alumni Association and numerous other organizations in the community.

Jim Sewell passed away at the age of 94 in 2011.He graduated from NHS in 1933 and then attended Washington State College (now WSU) with an engineering degree. He joined his father Harold in the civil engineering business in 1945 and was the PUD and Box Canyon Dam engineer for years. He loved the family cabin at Diamond Lake. He was a Boy Scout in his youth and his civic volunteerism continued, as he remained active with the Newport Alumni Association, Knights of Pythias, United Church of Christ and other local organizations. Jim is a member of the Newport Alumni Association Hall of Fame.

Verne V. Lindsay and Lorraine V. Lindsay Scholarship

The Verne V. Lindsay and Lorraine V. Lindsay Scholarship Foundation will award four $1,500 scholarships to four NHS graduates of the class of 2023.

Two scholarships will be awarded to students seeking further education in the academic field and two scholarships will be awarded to students seeking vocational training.

The applicant must provide the following information:

* A letter of application stating why they should be selected for this scholarship, their future educational goals and their community activities.

* Two letters of recommendation from a teacher and/or community members that attest to their abilities and character.

* An unofficial and updated transcript. They are requested to submit two copies of their completed application containing all these items, securely stapled together, by Friday April 28, 2023 at noon, to the counseling office. No late or incomplete applications will be considered.

Who were Vern and Lorraine Lindsay?

Verne V. Lindsay attended Newport High School, where he was a star athlete and musician, graduating in 1949. Lorraine and Verne were married in April 1963. Verne began his career in printing

at the Newport Miner Newspaper. Verne later retired after 33 years as a line setter for the Spokesman-Review. Verne was an avid bowler and instructor. He volunteered his time teaching the students from Tamarack Adolescent Center how to bowl. Verne’s passion was woodwork and his yard. Verne’s positive attitude and smile were his trademarks. He was always there to lend a helping hand to a neighbor. Thanks to Verne Lindsay for remembering his high school and wanting graduates to prosper.

Newport Alumni Association Scholarship

The Newport Alumni Association will award three $1,000 scholarships to three graduates of the class of 2023. The scholarships will be accepted to any of the following schools for the fall of 2023.

Vocational school

Technical school

Junior college

Four year university

The applicant must provide the following information:

* A Letter of Application stating why they should be selected for this scholarship, their future goals and their community activities.

* One letter of recommendation from a teacher, that attests to their abilities and character.

* One letter of recommendation from a non-teacher in the community, that attests to their abilities and character.

* An unofficial and updated transcript.

The applicant is requested to submit two copies of their completed application containing all these items, securely stapled together, by April 28, 2023 at noon, to the Newport High School counseling office. No late or incomplete applications will be considered.

Pend Oreille Players put scholarship in spotlight

The Pend Oreille Players Association (POPA) awards a scholarship to a high school senior who has trod the stage and/or worked behind the scenes on a Pend Oreille Playhouse production. Homeschooled students are welcome to apply. To qualify the applicant must have been in at least two POPA productions.

Applications may be picked up at the playhouse, located at 236 S. Union Ave. in Newport. To complete the application, all of the following information must be included:

Cumulative high school GPA, with a copy of transcripts.

A copy of the student’s college acceptance letter or other verification of enrollment.

On a separate page, the student must list all POPA productions and their area of involvement (actor, tech, props, etc.).

Submit a typewritten 250-500 word essay describing their experience with POPA, what that experience has meant to them and why they feel they are deserving of this scholarship.

Letter of recommendation from a POPA director the student has worked with or a POPA board member.

Letter of recommendation from a current or past teacher or educator.

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. All applications must be mailed or delivered in a sealed envelope to the Playhouse by or before May 31, 2023.

Address envelopes to Pend Oreille Players Association, Att: Scholarship Committee, 236 S. Union Ave., Newport, WA 99156.

COURTESY PHOTO|PEND OREILLE PLAYERS

Area students who have participated in at least two Pend Oreille Playhouse productions are eligible to apply for the POPA scholarship.

Newspaper programs available to you

Interested in a career in journalism and going to college? Let the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association (WNPA) help you. WNPA is comprised of community newspapers from Washington state, advocating for community newspapers, freedom of the press and open government. The association is dedicated to helping members advance editorial excellence, financial viability, professional development, and a high standard of publication quality and community leadership. For more information, go to www. wnpa2.clubexpress.com.

Student Internship Scholarships

Since the first internship scholarship was awarded in 1989, hundreds of students have spent part of a summer as a WNPA Foundation intern at a community newspaper in Washington. The hands-on experience prepares them to contribute effectively early in their careers as journalists. Applications are due before the end of January each year. To apply, send a cover letter telling why you want

SEE WNPA ON PAGE 13

COURTESY PHOTO|FRED OBEE

Washington Newspaper Publishers Association interns, front row at left, cover the state Legislature as members of the press corps in Olympia. Their stories are distributed to members of the WNPA statewide.

$1,500 Post 217 scholarship

The Calispel Post 217 American Legion offers a yearly $1,500 scholarship for one Cusick High School senior student who will be attending a university. For more information, people are invited to email calispelpost217@gmail.com.

P.E.O. scholarship helps girls thrive

Established in 1869, P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) is a philanthropic organization that celebrates the advancement of women. It promotes education for women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship of Cottey College and motivate women to achieve their highest potential. The local organization is Chapter O, started in Newport in 1908. Members would love for young women who attend Newport High School and will be graduating in the spring of 2023 to apply for P.E.O.’s scholarship.

For more information, please contact the counselor’s office at Newport High School at 509-447-2481 on how and when to apply.

To learn more about P.E.O., go to www.peointernational.org.

Enter Democrats’ Essay Contest

Pend Oreille County Democrats will sponsor the Second Annual Essay Contest the spring of 2023. All high school juniors and seniors residing within Pend Oreille County will be eligible to enter to win the $500 stipend. Information regarding the 2023 essay topic and entry requirements including due dates will be posted on the www.PODemocrats.com website and will be sent to local schools and newspapers by early April 2023.

Questions can be sent to POCDemocrats@gmail.com

WNPA

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to work for a community newspaper, a resume and work samples to fredobee@ wnpa.com.

Applicants are college students from two or four year institutions. Interested college students should contact their school’s journalism department.

The WNPA Foundation funds the program through donations by publishers and an annual silent auction, as well as through income from named endowments. These include the Bruce and Betty Helberg Internship Scholarship (est. 1988), the Verizon Northwest Internship Scholarship (1990), Richard W. Gay Internship Scholarship (1990), the Jim and Kay Flaherty Internship Scholarship (1993), and the Bruce Wilson and Henry Gay Internship Scholarship (2012).

UW Legislative Reporting Internship

Since the 2011 Legislative Session, the WNPA Foundation has provided scholarships for journalism students to do full-time, supervised reporting on Olympia.

These students file reports on issues of interest to rural or suburban communities. The stories are available to all 100-plus community newspapers in WNPA. The students are mentored both by UW staff and experienced WNPA editors and publishers who serve as volunteer mentors. Interns receive a stipend to cover housing and other needs.

For more information, email fredobee@wnpa.com.

Two internships are named in honor of Kris Passey and Wallie V. Funk. Passey was a former owner of the Marysville Globe and Arlington Times and a founder of the Washington Coalition for Open Government. Funk, an avid photographer and community activist, was publisher of the Whidbey News-Times, South Whidbey Record and the Anacortes American. Passey and Funk both passed away in 2017. A third internship is named in honor of Jerry Zubrod, WNPA Executive Director for two decades.

Running Start trims college cost

EDITOR’S NOTE: While not a scholarship, the Running Start program is a way to get a jump on college while in high school, at a fraction of the cost.

BY ADDYLYN RICHARDS

At 14 years old, I enrolled in my first college courses at Spokane Community College (SCC), and at 16, I graduated high school with an Associate of Arts degree. What enabled me to do this?

In 2020, at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, I enrolled in a private online high school in order to take control of my learning. As a motivated self-learner, I did well working at my own pace, whenever and wherever I wanted. I fulfilled both my freshman and sophomore credit requirements in one school year, and I was left with the question–What do I do next?

If I continued my education through this online school, I would graduate high school in less than two calendar years (this program required me to work through the summer), and I would be academically ready for college but lacking both the funds to attend and the maturity to succeed among college-aged students. Then, I discovered Running Start, a program that would allow me the flexibility I needed and provide me access to higher education at an affordable price, all while working with students my own age.

Running Start is a dual enrollment program that allows high school juniors and seniors to receive both high school and college credit through college courses. It was created in 1990 as part of the Washington state “Learning by Choice” law in order to increase educational opportunities for students.

Running Start has since expanded from a pilot program to include 34 community and technical colleges, Washington State, Central Washington, and Eastern Washington universities, as well as The Evergreen State College and the Northwest Indian College, according to the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

While high school students have access to many learning alternatives and programs, few are as advantageous as Washington’s Running Start program. Running Start is a favorable option for Washington juniors and seniors interested in flexible learning and educational progression at an affordable price.

The Running Start program grants students flexibility in their education. For example, I took advantage of online and attendance optional classes during the Covid-19 pandemic, so I could social distance as I continued my education. Running Start students can take any online, hybrid, and in-person courses, numbered 100 and above, offered at SCC, including various classes offered at SCC’s Newport Center. Running Start students not only have access to college resources but continued access to high school resources as well, including classes, clubs and sports.

SCC’s Running Start liaison Kris Cornelis recommends Running Start

students continue one class at the high school, “to keep their foot in the door,” though it is optional. Running Start allows flexibility within students’ busy schedules–I took advantage of this flexibility by sleeping in every day!

Many students worry about the time commitment of Running Start, but local Running Start graduate Kalli Maughan said she didn’t have trouble making time for fun outside of school.

“I didn’t have to make time,” she said. “I had so much free time to do the things I loved. I would usually get my school work done in the morning and have the rest of the day to go fishing or hiking. . . . I also got a job my second year of Running Start. [It] was nice to be able to work and do school at the same time.”

Students can keep Running Start from becoming a restriction on their time by choosing manageable classes and staying organized throughout the week. For example, I signed up for a statistics class where the teacher expected me to submit five assignments per day and put in 25 hours of work per week–that’s 5 hours of math each day. This was not a manageable time commitment for me, so I enrolled in different math class. Running Start’s flexibility is one of its greatest advantages.

The Running Start program is cost effective. Running Start students earn

15 credits each quarter, tuition free. Students are instead required to pay an average college fee of $165, and the additional cost for books. Comparatively, one quarter of community college tuition after high school averages $1,600, plus books. Through Running Start, the cost of travel is minimized by access to hybrid and in-person classes at the local Newport Center.

“The advantage of Running Start is for those students whose parents make enough money they will not be able to get financial aid,” Cornelis said. However, Running Start is accessible to low-income students as well. If a student qualifies for free or reduced lunch, or Washington Apple Health, their fees are waived, and they will receive a $100 book voucher each quarter. Thus, another advantage of the Running Start program is its affordability.

The greatest disadvantage of Running Start is disconnection from peers and teachers.

“You’re not really in the groove of things, like the highschoolers,” said Maughan. “I felt left out from my friends who went to school full time. I wouldn’t recommend [Running Start to] anyone who is super into the ‘high school experience.’”

I had a similar experience feeling disconnected from my non-Running Start friends, and I often felt discon-

nected from my instructors, as well. Unlike high school, at Running Start, you likely will not know all of your professors, and not all of them will know you.

Students who prioritize relationships with their teachers and peers can combat this disadvantage by signing up for in-person classes at the Newport Center and participating in classes, clubs, or sports at their high school. Overall, Running Start students agree that the advantages of Running Start outweigh its disadvantages.

What enabled me to get my Associate of Art at 16? A series of extreme circumstances that lead me to this highly flexible, cost effective program that allowed me to take control of my education and graduate early. Most likely, my circumstances are not reproducible, but through Running Start, earning college credit and a degree as a high schooler can be a reality. While this program is a commitment, it is not only for accelerated or gifted learners.

“Running Start is not necessarily easy, . . . [but] anyone can do Running Start,” Cornelis said. “If you have a GPA above 2.8, Running Start is manageable. Running start is for you if you’re . . . self-motivated, willing to put the work into the program, and want a challenge.”

Running Start is an opportunity for anyone seeking an alternative learning path or a chance to get ahead. Maughan said students do need to be motivated to do well in Running Start.

“I would recommend the type of student who truly cares about their future,” she said. “To be successful in Running Start, you have to be extremely motivated. Running Start is a hard choice to make, but in the end I think it’s so worth it.”

So, how do you start?

“It’s surprisingly easy,” Cornelis said. First, Fill out an SCC application online. Indicate you are a Running Start student pursuing an Associate of Arts degree, and you will be attending the Newport Center. Then, contact your high school counselor, as well as Kris Cornelis at the Newport Center. They will help you send your high school transcript to SCC. Fill out an academic disclaimer form and a graduation tool/enrollment verification form–the process is currently changing. Finally, attend an online new student orientation and register for classes.

In summary, Running Start is a program that allows students to take control of their futures through flexible learning and affordability. Running Start granted me access to stimulating and advanced coursework, and it enabled me to graduate early with an Associate of Arts degree. This opportunity is open to any student seeking a challenge or wanting to get ahead. Now is the time to utilize learning opportunities and get a running start to your future.

COURTESY PHOTO Addylyn Richards earned an Associate Arts degree at age 16 through the Running Start program.

Juniors, apply for Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars program

The State Department of Education, in partnership with NASA Aerospace Scholars, is offering Idaho 11th graders the chance to explore a future in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and aerospace careers.

“This program truly gives kids a springboard to their futures,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra said. “Seeing talented Idaho students explore their passion for STEM with world-class instructors is absolutely inspiring, and I know that this year will be no different.”

Through Idaho Science and Aerospace Scholars (ISAS), high school juniors can take an interactive online space exploration course with NASA-developed curriculum.

Students will cover a broad range of STEM skills aligned with Idaho Content Standards. Based on their course performance, students may be invited to participate in a seven-day summer residential academy at Boise State University and the NASA Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) in Burbank, Calif. Registration for ISAS is now open at www.sde.idaho. gov/academic/isas.

Coursework will be offered online by the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance from January through May. This award-winning course includes eight online units and a semester-long project that allows students to build their knowledge of space exploration and its relationship to Idaho STEM, all led by master educators. Students who successfully complete the coursework will receive one high school science elective credit or, for a fee, may register for two concurrent enrollment credits with

Boise State University.

Students who are invited to participate in the seven-day residential summer academy in Boise and Burbank will undertake a mentored teamsimulated human mission to Mars while being immersed in hands-on Idaho science, technology, engineering and math activities. Students who successfully complete the ISAS Summer Academy requirements may register for one concurrent enrollment credit with Boise State University.

To apply a student must:

Be a U.S. citizen and Idaho resident

Be a high school junior with an interest in science, technology, engineering or mathematics

Have a GPA of 2.7 or higher

Be at least 16 and have parental permission

Commit to all aspects of the ISAS program

Have internet access and email (home, school or public library)

Learn more about the program and access the online application at: www.sde.idaho.gov/academic/isas

Evergreen Art Association Scholarship

Aspiring artist, this one is for you. The Evergreen Art Association’s (EAA) goal is to further members’ education, knowledge and appreciation of art.

The group has a monthly guest artist doing demonstrations of their art and techniques and members participate in exhibits, art shows and sales. Outings on location with plein air paintings and tours of local museums and galleries are planned on a regular basis. The non-profit welcomes anyone who would like to come to the meetings and become an Evergreen Artist.

Visual Art Scholarship

One of the main missions of the Evergreen Art Association is to encourage young artists to pursue their creative abilities. As such, EAA offers a yearly $500 Visual Art Scholarship for a graduating senior from the area schools or home school who is going to major or minor in any visual art field, such as Fine Arts, Commercial Art, Computer Graphics, Web Site Design or Photography.

All applicants must complete an application that is available in March of each year from their high school or from the Evergreen Art Association Facebook site. Five original works of art, preferably from three to five different mediums, must be submitted with the application. Also, a current transcript and letter of recommendation from the art teacher or other relevant teacher is required. If any applicant does not meet the criteria, the committee has the option to not award a scholarship that year. If the winner does not use the

scholarship, the committee has the option to award the second place person the scholarship.

Judging takes place the fourth week of April and the recipient and other applicants will be notified as soon as possible. The scholarship will be made payable to the college or university stated on the application.

A little history on EAA

Since 1988, EAA has awarded 33 scholarships. EAA began in the fall of 1978 with a group of five women who met monthly for painting classes and lunch. The group steadily grew and they decided to form an art organization. The charter meeting was held in April 1981 and officers were elected. The first formal public meeting was

held May 4, 1981 at the Golden Spur Restaurant in Newport with twelve charter members.

Currently, EAA has 25 active members who meet monthly on the second Monday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Rotary Building in Oldtown.

If interested in joining the Evergreen Art Association, contact President Jan Gleason at 509-447-5948.

MINER PHOTO|SOPHIA ALDOUS Evergreen Art Association often has classes at their regular meetings, like this alcohol ink tile class pictured above. The non-profit is open to veteran and aspiring artists of all ages and offers a scholarship to those studying the arts.

For future Idaho journalists

The Idaho Press Club offers two scholarships each year.

The Don Watkins Scholarship awards $1,500 to graduates of Idaho high schools who have completed at least one year of college and wish to pursue a career in journalism or communications. Full-time students majoring in journalism or working for a college or professional media outlet are eligible to apply.

To apply, submit a one-page resume; a 500-word essay explaining your interest in a journalism or communications career; samples of your journalistic work, whether published or unpublished, and a copy of your transcripts, including GPA, through the most recent fall term. Additionally, sign the Scholarship Information Release Don Watkins Memorial Scholarship – Information Release (may be electronic signature) and submit with your application. Applications may be submitted electronically via email to email@idahopressclub.org. If you have video files, please upload them to YouTube or a similar site and send the link.

The application deadline is Feb. 15 each year for the scholarship for the following fall.

For more information, www.idahopressclub.org/scholarships call IPC

Executive Director Martha Borchers at 208-389-2879, or contact her by email at email@idahopressclub.org

About Don Watkins

According to author Chris Carlson, Watkins nurtured, critiqued and encouraged numerous reporters across Idaho mostly from his post as director of communications for the Department of Education and as press secretary to

Idaho Governor John Evans. When he died at the age of 62 on Aug. 24, 1981, the headline in The Spokesman-Review ran “Idaho Buries the Godfather.” His family and friends created the Don Watkins Scholarships in his name.

Mid-Career Scholarship

The Mid-Career Scholarship awards $500 for any Idaho Press Club member to use for any training or project

that will improve the working press in Idaho. Go to idahopressclub.org/ scholarships/mid-career-scholarship for more details.

Applications are due Feb. 15 of each year. The winner is announced at the Press Club’s annual awards banquet in May.

For more information, call IPC Executive Director Martha Borchers at  208-389-2879, or contact her by email at email@idahopressclub.org

Masons offer senior scholarships, junior achievement awards

The Newport Masonic Lodge awards a $1,000 scholarship to the top three senior boys and girls of each school district in Pend Oreille County every year. High school juniors, like those pictured here, can earn points toward qualifying for those senior scholarships by participating in and winning the Masons’ Junior Achievement award. For applications for both Junior Achievement and senior scholarships, students should ask their school’s guidance counselor for more information. For more information about the Newport Masonic Lodge, call 509-6712804.

COURTESY PHOTO|NEWPORT MASONS

Innovia offers bundles of scholarships

Innovia Foundation hosts several scholarships available to help students in the region achieve their higher education goals by attending colleges, universities, or vocational schools. These funds provide nearly $350,000 in scholarships annually.

Students in Pend Oreille County are eligible to apply for the following scholarships:

Bess Mikalson Scholarship

Applicants must be seniors or graduates from high schools in Ferry and Stevens Counties, or of Selkirk High School in Pend Oreille County, who plan on attending a public 2- or 4-year college in Washington State. Selection is made on the basis of financial need and evidence of good character. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply.

Denny and Thelma Yasuhara Scholarship

Applicants must be high school seniors or graduates from the Inland Northwest region who demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and must be good citizens. All ages and education levels are welcome to apply. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply.

Diamond Lake Ranch Scholarship

Applicants must be female seniors of Newport High School who have been involved with at least one sport during her senior year.

Diversity in Advertising Scholarship

The scholarship is open to Black, Indigenous and other People of Color of all ages in Innovia’s 20-county service region. Applicants must be intending to study

or currently studying Marketing, Advertising or Design with a career focus of Digital Marketing, Advertising, Design and/or Computer Science at any accredited institution (public or private). All ages and education levels are welcome to apply. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply.

Don and Mable Nicholls Scholarship

Applicants must be high school seniors who have a minimum GPA of 2.5, plan to attend college fulltime, and are the first in their family to attend college. Preference will be given to those studying for careers in Education or Engineering, have some employment/ work experience, and can demonstrate financial need. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply.

Lucille I. Hudon Scholarship

Applicants must be graduating seniors or graduates entering their first year of post-secondary education and have resided for at least two years in Spokane, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Stevens, Whitman, Kootenai, Shoshone, Bonner, or Boundary Counties. A minimum high school GPA of 3.0 is also required, and applicants are strongly encouraged to submit two letters of recommendation with their application. There is no age limit for this scholarship. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply.

Mark and Kay Burkett Scholarship

Applicants must be American citizens demonstrating financial need and academic achievement. Preference shall be given to students with community service experience. Students must reside in or have attended high school within the geographic region served by Innovia Foundation. Previous recipients are eligible to reapply.

Newport-Priest River Rotary Scholarship

Applicants must reside in Pend Oreille County, Wash. or within the West Bonner County School District boundaries in Idaho. Scholarships are available for all education levels and school types, including students who intend to or are currently participating in a training program, internship, or apprenticeship to prepare them for gainful employment in a recognized occupation that is not prohibited under federal or state law. There is no age restriction for applicants. Additional application requirements are a demonstration of financial need and two letters of recommendation.

Spokane Area Swimming Adam England Memorial Scholarship Fund

Applicants must be graduating seniors in the Inland Northwest region who have participated in competitive swimming meets while in high school and maintained a 3.5 GPA. Students must submit a letter of recommendation from a coach confirming participation.

Stoll Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is open to all seniors and graduates in Innovia’s 20-county service region Inland Northwest. Preference will be given to students who intend to attend community college prior to transferring to a four-year school, excluding Ivy League schools, and students to intent to re-apply for additional aid throughout college. There is no age limit for this scholarship. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply.

Go to www.innovia.org/students to learn more about scholarship opportunities and to create an account on the applications portal, MyInnovia. Scholarship programs open for applications Dec. 1, 2022.