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Gilmer signs new REACH Scholars

EAST ELLIJAY, Ga. – Continuing their annual program Gilmer County Schools recognized the three newest REACH Scholars – Yadhira Alonzo-Alcon, Matia Rafael-Garcia and Wilburn Simeon Weaver on November 20, 2020, at the REACH Signing Ceremony at Clear Creek Middle School.

Yadhira Alonzo-Alcon signs the contract to become one of Gilmer’s REACH Scholars for 2020.

The program operates as eighth grade students apply and are selected to participate in the REACH Georgia scholarship program to support their post-secondary educational journey.

Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs began the program by welcoming the scholars’ families and congratulating the new scholars. Gilmer High School and Clear Creek Middle School principals, Carla Foley and Nicole Pike also addressed the scholars and their families.

Wilburn Simeon Weaver signs the contract to become one of Gilmer’s REACH Scholars for 2020.

The ceremony concluded with Dr. Downs inducting the scholars and walking them through their obligations and responsibilities. The REACH Scholars and their families signed commitment forms, agreeing to meet the requirements of the scholarship program of keeping an overall 2.5 or above grade point average, having good attendance, good behavior, and meeting with their assigned mentor and academic advisor.

Matia Rafael-Garcia signs the contract to become one of GIlmer’s REACH Scholars for 2020.

REACH Georgia is the State of Georgia’s needs-based mentorship and college scholarship program. The mission is to ensure that Georgia’s academically promising students have the academic, social, and financial support needed to graduate from high school, access college and achieve postsecondary success. Beginning in the 8th grade and through high school, REACH Scholars are paired with a mentor and an academic coach. Scholars must maintain good grades (2.5+ HOPE Calculated GPA), behavior and attendance. Scholars who successfully complete the program and graduate from high school are awarded a $10,000 scholarship ($2,500/year) that can be used at a HOPE-eligible University System of Georgia, Technical College System of Georgia, or private postsecondary institution. The scholarship is in addition to any other grant or scholarship the student receives.

(Photos provided by Gilmer County Schools)

Lonnie Adams