News Summary
The Madison County Regional Office of Education celebrated the inaugural recipients of the Alma Irene Aitch Scholarship, awarding ten high school students with $1,000 each. Selected from over 50 applicants, these students demonstrated exceptional academic achievements and ambitions for higher education. The scholarship, named after a respected educator, aims to recognize students’ dedication and support their educational journeys.
Madison, Illinois — Ten High School Students Receive Inaugural Alma Irene Aitch Scholarship
The Madison County Regional Office of Education hosted a ceremony on Tuesday to honor the first group of recipients of the Alma Irene Aitch Scholarship, a new academic award aimed at recognizing excellence among local high school students. Ten students from various high schools across Madison County were selected to receive this inaugural award, each awarded a monetary prize of $1,000.
Selection Process and Criteria
The recipients were chosen from more than 50 applicants based on their scholarship applications, which highlighted their high school achievements and future educational plans. The selection committee prioritized students demonstrating personal drive, academic excellence, and clear intentions to pursue higher education or trade training. The scholarship is designed to motivate and reward students for their dedication to their academic and personal development.
Details of the Scholarship Program
The Alma Irene Aitch Scholarship was established through a collaboration between community leaders and educators, including Manny Jackson, Dr. Ed Hightower, and Dr. Robert W. Werden. It is named after Alma Irene Aitch, a former teacher at Lincoln School in Edwardsville known for her lasting influence on her students. The program will continue to be offered annually to high school seniors in Madison County who plan to attend either a university, college, or trade school.
2025 Scholarship Recipients
- Elise Berry – Roxana High School
- LilyRose Cockrum – Granite City High School
- Wren Crawford – Alton High School
- Jordan Ealey – East Alton-Wood River High School
- Jayna Halley – Civic Memorial High School
- Savanah Heinle – Triad High School
- Kameron Hildebrand-Johnson – Edwardsville High School
- Addyson Moore – Edwardsville High School
- Emily Phillips – Alton High School
- Tyra Wells – Alton Marquette High School
Note that Jayna Halley and Addyson Moore were not present at the ceremony but are recognized among the winners.
Future Plans and Program Stability
The scholarship’s eligibility criteria will remain consistent in subsequent years, ensuring fair and transparent selection for future applicants. The program intends to continue supporting students throughout Madison County who demonstrate academic and personal achievement, emphasizing the importance of hard work and excellence in education.
Background and Significance
The Alma Irene Aitch Scholarship honors the memory of Alma Irene Aitch, who made a significant impact as an educator in Edwardsville. The award aims not only to provide financial assistance but also to recognize students’ personal accomplishments and potential, fostering continued success in their educational journeys.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Telegraph: Madison County Students Scholarships
- Wikipedia: Scholarships
- Riverbender: Scholarship Applications for Low-Income Students
- Google Search: Scholarships for Students
- Advantage News: Madison County Offering Scholarships
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Scholarship
- Greene Publishing: Miss Madison County Pageant
- Google News: Madison County Scholarships
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