York City Scholars Program

The York City Scholars Program provides a bridge of support for college-bound York City students pursuing degrees at colleges, universities, and technical schools with the goal of increasing graduation rates.

Students are introduced to a Program Coach during the scholarship application process, and scholarship recipients stay in contact beginning in the summer after high school graduation as they prepare for their first term of postsecondary education. Topics of discussion include college costs and money management, dealing with academic struggles, and what to expect when living with a roommate, among other topics. Access to the Program Coach continues until graduation and beyond, ensuring that Scholars have the resources and encouragement needed to be successful.

 

Interested students can inquire further by e-mailing bearcatscholars@gmail.com and by visiting the York City Dollars For Scholars page on Facebook.

 

 

 

Other past and current academic support programs:

 

Diane Baker presents "Money In Motion," a financial literacy program provided by American Bankers Association.

 

 

 

 

 

York City Scholars Program (Original Model)
The York City Scholars program provided individual and group support, guidance, learning activities, exposure to various cultural events, personal enrichment opportunities, as well as trips to colleges. Students learned about educational options and careers.In its seven years of existence, York City Scholars served 47 students. All of those students have graduated from high school and have moved on to post-secondary education of their choice. Most York City Scholars are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.

York City Scholars operated from 2003-2012 with the support of a number of generous benefactors, principally the Blatner family, and staff from the York County Community Foundation. Due to financial constraints arising, in large part, from the impact of the economic recession, the program has been ended with our last group of students graduating in June 2012. The program has evolved into the Scholars Program summarized above.

Kaplan SAT Preparation Program
Ninety William Penn students enrolled in this 12 week nationally-known Kaplan Inc. SAT program. Students increased their test scores by an average of 70 points; some gained more than 200 points. This program is now provided by the York City School District and has been built into the regular William Penn curriculum.

Kaplan College Admissions Seminar
This 6-session Kaplan College Admissions Seminar was offered to William Penn students. Although the course was helpful,we concluded that students needed more intensive help during the application process.

Career Day
In 1999 and 2000, YCDFS organized successful Career Days for all William Penn juniors. Thirty York professionals presented their professions and engaged students in discussions.