Established in 1996 through a collaborative partnership between District 205, Carl Sandburg College and Knox College, the Gale Scholars Program supports academically promising first-generation and low-income youth within District 205 by awarding tuition waivers toward the completion of associate's and bachelor's degree programs at CSC and Knox, respectively. The program was recognized by the Illinois Board of Higher Education in 1999 as one of six exemplary "best practices" within the State of Illinois—a program that directly addresses the growing number of youth who, because of socio-economic barriers, often are not given the opportunity to realize their full potential as scholars and future leaders in our communities.

Up to 15 students who meet low income and first generation requirements are selected to the program based on written applications, letters of recommendation and personal interviews each year. Scholars must then maintain a minimum 2.5 grade-point average in a college preparatory curriculum, provide 20 hours of community service annually, and participate in at least two extracurricular activities each year within the high school system. Specifically, this is a program that motivates our first generation and low income high school students to pursue higher education through tailored instruction, mentorship and advisement. The program:

• enhances academic skills in required subject areas,
• develops socialization skills to provide positive peer support,
• improves college retention rates,
• promotes access for underrepresented groups, and
• ensures that a college education is affordable for our most financially needy students.

This program is also a model for other districts and it is our hope that other consortiums between school districts, community colleges, and four year baccalaureate institutions can duplicate the Gale Scholars Program to further break down the social and financial barriers that prevent promising and motivated youth from attaining a college degree. As we continue to demonstrate the effectiveness of this program in the lives of students who statistically are the least likely to attend, let alone graduate from college, we are confident that others will want to implement similar programs within other districts.

For more information, contact:

Les Hunter, Program Director
The George Washington Gale Scholars Program
leshunter@aol.com