Scholarship Programs: Nourishing the Mind & Spirit

By Deacon Bob Snow

Education is an essential ingredient to improving the quality of life in third world countries. Of the 8 million people living in the Dominican Republic (DR), 1.5 million have had less than 3 years of schooling. Education is compulsary through the sixth grade. However, 13% of all eligible children in this age group are not enrolled in school. In addition, 59% of those finishing 8th grade do not continue their education.

Because the Diocese does not have the resources to subsidize them, Episcopal schools must be self supporting. Therefore, schools depend upon tuition fees to cover their costs. Even so, the Diocese is committed to providing an education to young people, regardless of their ability to pay or religious affiliation. A scholarship program supported by individuals and churches in the United States allows the diocese to do so.

Last year (2001), 407 students received financial help from sponsors in the United States. This represents 10 percent of all students attending Episcopal schools, and an increase of 120 scholarships over the year before.

Students benefit most when families invest in their child's education. Except for hardship cases, families pay a portion of their childs's education. Most students receive half-scholarships, but some receive a three-quarter scholarship. The priest responsible for the school determines the amount of assistance each child receives.

The cost of living in the DR has increased significantly in the past year, impacting all our schools. Five years ago, a half scholarship was $150. Today a half-scholarship is $200 to $250, depending on the school and grade level. Scholarship sponsors receive the name of a student, along with a picture, short biography and a thank you letter (or drawing in the case of younger students). In many cases, students will correspond with their sponsors at least once during the year, though this is not required. Sponsors may correspond with the student. This school year, the diocese estimates that at least 500 students will apply for financial help.

Normally, it would be difficult for the Diocese to obtain this many additional sponsors. However, individuals in dioceses associated with the DR have volunteered to promote scholarships in their area. In face, representatives from the Diocese of Southwest Florida, Georgia and Nebraska have volunteered to assist with preparing sponsorship information.