Previous Story
22 SDA students give thanks for scholarships
|
Posted on Oct 14 2011
By Clarissa V. David
Reporter
Reporter
Twenty students of the Saipan Seventh-Day Adventist School made “thank you” cards that they presented to members of the SDA Clinic board yesterday to express their appreciation for the scholarship program that helps finance their Christian education.
The students, between pre-school to eighth grade, shook hands with eight of the 10 board members before handing over the cards at the SDA Clinic along Quartermaster Road.
School principal Michael Berglund, who was among those who accompanied the students, said the SDA Clinic board provided $50,000 worth of scholarships for 32 students for school year 2011-2012.
“We couldn’t do it without the board,” Berglund told Saipan Tribune. “They’re a huge part of our funding and it gives us a chance to provide these students with a good Christian education.”
The scholarship program, open to all members of the community and is not limited to a specific religious domination, pays for up to 75 percent of the tuition of each scholar. The remaining 25 percent is shouldered by the student’s family.
A scholar is required to have a good academic standing and have proof of financial need.
Danielle Zayco, 11, said the scholarship program has been very helpful for her and her mother, who pays less for a quality education. She said she has been a scholar for two years now.
“It just motivates me to work harder because I got the scholarship through my good grades,” said the seventh grader. “Thank you SDA board for helping me and my mom out, for paying part of my tuition because it really helps a lot.”
Eighth grader Jessila Karben said it feels great knowing that she will be able to graduate through the scholarship program.
“Thank you to the board for everything, for supporting me, my family, and the school,” said Karben.
First grader old Ava Deleon Guerrero, 6, said she, too, feels grateful for the scholarship, which has helped her family shoulder the costs of her education.
“I promise I will do my best with my studies,” said seventh grader Mariol Joy Lopez, 11.
Board chair Louie Torres commended the SDA School staff and the students whom he encouraged to study hard.
“God bless you children and use this education the best way that you can,” said Torres.
