INSTITUTE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia State University (WVSU) has unveiled a transformative five-year scholarship program for elementary education majors, made possible by a generous $500,000 pledge from the John and Ruth McGee Foundation. The funding, spread over five years at $100,000 annually, aims to alleviate financial barriers for high-need students pursuing teaching careers in the Mountain State.
“The McGee Foundation Scholarship will be life-changing for the students who receive it,” said Dr. Kerri Steele, Dean of the College of Professional Studies at WVSU. “Many of our students balance demanding academic programs with jobs, but advancing through the program becomes more challenging as they face competency exams, rigorous experiential learning requirements, and full-time residency placements. This scholarship is designed to ease financial concerns, allowing students to focus entirely on preparing to become the qualified, dedicated teachers our West Virginia children deserve.”
The McGee Foundation Scholarship will target West Virginia residents pursuing elementary education degrees with demonstrated financial need. The program is designed to fill funding gaps after federal and state financial aid has been applied, providing support for tuition, praxis exam costs, and other expenses directly tied to obtaining teaching licensure.
Priority will be given to students committed to teaching in West Virginia’s public schools after graduation, further addressing the state’s need for skilled educators.
The scholarship program will begin awarding funds in the fall 2025 semester, offering incremental financial support as students advance through their studies. The phased approach aligns with the increasing demands on students as they progress toward licensure and residency placements in their final year.
The John and Ruth McGee Foundation’s substantial investment highlights the critical role of teachers in shaping the state’s future and reflects a commitment to fostering the next generation of educators.
“This program is not just an investment in WVSU students but in the future of West Virginia’s children and communities,” said Dr. Steele.
For more information about the McGee Foundation Scholarship program, prospective students are encouraged to contact WVSU’s College of Professional Studies.
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