Local State Lawmakers Applaud Next Generation Hoosier Educator Scholarship Recipients

A number of local students were among the scholarship recipients.

Shutterstock photo.

INDIANAPOLIS – Local state lawmakers are applauding seven area high school students who have received Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarships.

The scholarship program was established in 2016 through legislation support by State Reps. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg), Randy Lyness (R-West Harrison) and Cindy Ziemke (R-Batesville).

This year, more than 600 students applied for the Next Generation Hoosier Educator Scholarship. Approximately 200 students were named recipients including:

• Alyssa Wanstrath, Oldenburg Academy, selected Ball State University;
• Claire Wallace, North Decatur Jr-Sr High School, selected Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus;
• Emma Back, Oldenburg Academy, selected Franklin College;
• Emma Newhart, Jac-Cen-Del MS/HS, selected Franklin College;
• Jayme Pennington, East Central High School, selected Indiana University Bloomington;
• Jessika Thomas, South Ripley High School, selected Purdue University West Lafayette; and
• Olivia Raab, Batesville High School, selected Purdue University West Lafayette.

Each will receive $7,500 per year and up to $30,000 total for committing to teach in Indiana for at least five years after graduating college.

State Rep. Randy Frye:

"Teachers can be some of the most important people in a child's life, and we need talented individuals to pursue this rewarding career," Frye said. "This scholarship encourages some of our brightest students to pursue teaching the next generation."

State Rep. Randy Lyness:

"Teachers play pivotal roles in both our schools and communities," Lyness said. "They often have a lasting impact on young learners, and these scholarships help put some of the best future educators in our Hoosier classrooms. Congratulations  to these students, and I wish them the best on their journeys to becoming educators."

State Rep. Cindy Ziemke:

"Investing in our teachers is so important to ensuring the best education for Hoosier students," Ziemke said. "These scholarships are a great way to ease the financial burdens of college and help students concentrate on earning their degree."

For more information, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher.