…Those who have endured some misfortune will always be set apart, but that it is just that misfortune which is their gift and which is their strength…

-Cormac McCarthy

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SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS

The Paving a Pathway Scholarship is an education scholarship designed to assist students, who have been to a Durango Juvenile Court, referred to LPYS Diversion Program or have had an encounter with law enforcement and who have a desire to change their lives through education. Scholarships are based on meeting set criteria. Applicants should be aware that personal interviews may be requested by the Scholarship Committee (a DEF representative, DEF Executive Director and/or Scholarship Donor representative).

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Application Cycle: January 11, 2024 - March 11, 2024
Deadline to Submit: March 15, 2024 @ 5PM
Award Amount: up to $10,000 total over the course of 4 years to student’s choice school
Selection: Recipients will be selected by the DEF Scholarship Committee, in conjunction with the Martin Family, LPYS representative, and DPD School Resource Officer

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ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS

Any Durango School District 9-R graduating senior, who resides in La Plata County and who has, at one time, been referred to LPYS Diversion Program or Juvenile/Family Court is eligible.

SCHOLARSHIP CRITERIA
-To qualify, the student must plan to attend an institution of high learning, such as community college, vocational/technical school, or university
-Be in their senior year at Durango High School or Big Picture High School
-Provide proof that the applicant is on track for graduation
-Have been to a Durango Juvenile Court, referred to LPYS Diversion Program or have had an encounter with law enforcement
-If an adult (17 years of age or over), have not been charged with a Felony Act Against Persons

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INDIVIDUAL SCHOLARSHIP REQUIREMENTS

1) A COMPLETE APPLICATION

2) Academic Transcript
3)Two (2) letters of recommendation (i.e. LPYS Youth Advocate, School Counselor, School Resource DPD Officer, teacher, clergy, coaches, etc)

4) #1 College and Career Essay: What are your education and career goals? What makes you passionate about this future path? What have you done, so far, to pursue these future goals? What will you be doing 1 and 5 years after college graduation? (600 words maximum) 

#2 Obstacles Prompt: What challenge, big or small, are you proud to have persevered through, and what challenges, as you enter college, do you still have ahead of you? (300 words maximum)

5) Complete the following cover page: Click Here to Access the Cover Page