POCIS High School Student Scholarships

DEADLINE: April 30

The People of Color in Independent Schools Board is seeking to highlight four high school students who have demonstrated a commitment to equity and inclusion and are leaders in the classroom and beyond to award a one-time $1,500 scholarship. To be eligible students must:

  • Self-identify as a student of color
  • Attend a POCIS member school
  • Average a 3.25 cumulative grade point average or higher
  • Enroll in a 2-4 year institution of higher learning

To Apply

Complete the online application by April 30 (STUDENTS ONLY)! The Application is available March 31 and has 5 parts:

  1. Original Essay: “Why do you believe the cultures, diverse heritages, languages, knowledge, and insights of people of color contribute to creating inclusive, and affirming schools?”
    1. Three pages or less.
    2. Twelve-point, Times New Roman Font
    3. Double spaced
  2. Two recommendations from adult members of your school community regarding your strength and experience as a leader. Provide the names and emails of your sponsors, in the online application, and we will contact them on your behalf.
  3. One recommendation from an adult member of your broader community regarding your strengths as a leader. Provide the name and email of your recommender and we will contact them for a recommendation on your behalf.
  4. Short Answer (500 words or less): “How does your culture, heritage, language, knowledge, and insight contribute to creating inclusive, and affirming school environment?”
  5. Evidence of 3.25 cumulative GPA (official transcript, PowerSchool, etc.)

The Selection Process

Members of the Scholarship Selection Committee will evaluate the applications and determine the four award recipients. The Selection Committee will be comprised of seven members, including the Scholarship Committee Chairperson. The other six members may be a combination of current and past school members, partners, and board alumni.  

The Selection Team will review the applications and determine the fellowship recipients based on the following criteria:

  1. How insightfully does the essay address the prompt and relate to the student’s experience?
  2. How persuasively are the recommendations in describing the student’s leadership qualities and commitment to fairness, dignity, and respect?
  3. How persuasive is the short answer response in convincing the reader of the student’s sincerity and strengths?
  4. How culturally, ethnically and racially diverse is the cohort of 4 students who are receiving the award? Are all persons of color being included in the award opportunity?

Applicants will be notified by the POCIS Board Chair of their status no later than June 14.