Students from 84 schools around the country applied for the one-time college scholarship from NHA, the school’s charter management company. Out of hundreds of applicants, seven were awarded the $5,000 scholarship to be used for their future college endeavors.
As part of the application process, each applicant was required to write a personal essay on one of four topics. Anna selected perseverance, a moral focus virtue, for her personal essay.
“Being reminded that hard work pays off but doesn’t always mean the road is going to be easy on the way, is what perseverance is all about. Keeping this idea in mind while making decisions turned my whole horse show around and allowed me to have one of my most successful shows, despite the challenges. We did not place in the championship class, but I won my self-confidence back.”
Anna is an active member of National Junior Honor Society, 4H, basketball, volleyball, cross country, cheerleading, and band. She has won the scholars athlete award, principals, award, and the National Summer Learning Association essay contest/
“On behalf of National Heritage Academies, I want to congratulate Anna Richards on winning one of the 2018 NHA CollegeBound Scholarships,” said Tari Reinink, NHA chief marketing officer. “Anna is an excellent example of what we hope for all NHA students. With strong academics, admirable character, and a passion for community, I look forward to seeing what she accomplishes in the future. I wish Anna the best of luck on her next academic venture.”
All eighth-grade students who attend an NHA school are eligible for the scholarship. An independent professional selection group chose the winners based on their essay submission, academics, and community service.
Ninety-three percent of the scholarship money comes directly from NHA employee donations. Many NHA employees see the scholarship fund as an opportunity to further support students and help them on the path toward college readiness.
About Canton Charter Academy
Canton Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Canton, Michigan, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
Visit Canton Charter Academy's blog to read more stories like this.