As the school year moves forward, many area students are beginning to think about life after high school.
With college on the horizon, families begin to worry more and more about finances. However, help is available, through scholarships, for those willing to take the time to look.
The Antis Township Board of Supervisors, through their yearly Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement, have an ongoing scholarship program for high school and college or technical school students who are current residents of Antis Township.
The scholarships have been awarded to students for the past eight years. Last year, six students received $1,200 each to use toward their college education.
The scholarship program was created to help high school seniors looking to go to college or technical school, however, money has been awarded to students currently enrolled in a higher education program.
Eligibility is awarded on low to moderate income status. Interested individuals can fill out a short, one page survey to determine LMI status. The Blair County Planning Commission determines eligibility. Once LMI status is determined, students will receive scholarship applications.
Those applicants with LMI status are then referred back to the Bellwood-Antis School District Scholarship Committee. The committee reviews applicant’s academic credentials and sends several candidates back to Antis Township.
Then, in consultation with the school district’s scholarship committee, the Antis Township Board of Supervisors select candidates for scholarship funding.
This year, the board is able to offer a total of $8,400 in funding. The money will be split between seven students, each receiving $1,200.
Interested families and students may obtain application forms at the Antis Township Municipal Building, 909 N. Second St., Bellwood, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Applications are also available at the Bellwood-Antis High School Guidance Office.
The scholarships will be awarded by Antis Township in May. Application deadline is April 15.
Applications may be mailed to: Blair County Planning Commission, Attn: Craig Soyster, Valley View Home, 301 Valley View Blvd., Wing E, Altoona, Pa 16602.
All questions should also be directed to Craig Soyster, Antis Township CDBG Grant Administrator, at 940-5983.
