SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION

High-achieving graduating seniors who plan to major in education at a state university are eligible to apply for a $6,000 renewable Centennial Scholars Program award from

12 News and azcentral.com. Judges will choose up to 10 scholarship winners based on academic and community achievement, essays and interviews. In addition to scholarship funds — which are renewable for up to four years and may be used to cover tuition, fees, books and on-campus room and board — program partner Arizona Community Foundation will provide support services for student success. To apply, candidates must be Arizona residents; 2012 graduates from an Arizona high school in Maricopa, Pinal, Yavapai or Coconino counties; have a GPA of at least 3.5; and plan to major in education at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University or the University of Arizona. The scholarship program hopes to honor the state’s centennial by looking forward, according to John Zidich, CEO and publisher of Zidich said new educators will “teach, shape and prepare future generations to lead,” and “there’s no better way to ensure that Arizona excels both nationally and internationally than supporting today the teachers of tomorrow.” Essay questions will explore why applicants are choosing to become teachers, as well as any major obstacles they may have overcome. Preference will be given to those who have a high class rank, have actively and consistently participated in community service and school activities, and/or have financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. To renew the scholarship, winners must maintain at least a 3.5 GPA, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours and keep education as their major or course of study. The application deadline is April 6. Applicants will be interviewed in mid-may, with winners announced after the final interview date.

Applications can be found at azfoundation.academicworks.com.