A total of up to $9,000 in scholarships is on the table for some community-minded Queens students.
School District 26 scholars, from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade, have until March 28 to enter a contest to compete for $250 to $1,000 in prizes.
Elementary youngsters are asked to draw pictures of their favorite school activity, while high school students from Benjamin Cardozo, Francis Lewis, Bayside, Queens High School of Teaching and Martin Van Buren write essays, describing inspirational, fictional characters.
“Some of the essays that come in are really moving,” said Mary Vaccaro, the district’s United Federation of Teachers (UFT) representative. “And in the elementary grades, we’ve seen some truly gifted people. We’ve seen some really amazing things.”
This is the eighth year of the contest, headed by the UFT and the (CSA). It is judged by a panel of 30 district parents, teachers and principals.
In the last two years, 1,450 students applied and $15,500 in scholarships were given away, Vaccaro said.
“When this started, we felt we really wanted to be involved in the community,” she said. “We thought it would be a good idea to honor those students who are really trying hard.”
Applications and rules can be found at https://www.uft.org/news/district-26-scholarship-application-available.
Those interested can also call 718-275-4400 for more information.
Checks will be distributed May 22 to winners, during the district’s annual scholarship dinner dance.
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