The Clarke County School District is pleased to announce its 2022-23 cohort of REACH Scholars. Five middle school students will be awarded scholarships through REACH Georgia (Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen), a mentoring and scholarship program providing students a framework of support (educational and financial) to aid their successful journey through high school and beyond.

Students from the eighth grade were selected through a multi-level process, including an extensive application, school-based semi-finalist selection, and a panel interview with REACH Committee members and district staff. Scholars must maintain at least a 2.5 grade-point average and good behavior and attendance throughout middle and high school. Upon program completion, students are awarded a $10,000 scholarship, which can be used at any HOPE-eligible institution in Georgia. A majority of Georgia colleges match or double-match this scholarship.

Congratulations to the 2022-23 cohort:

• Angel Jones, W.R. Coile Middle School. Jones has also been selected as the overall district winner with the highest score in the district.

• Steve Koonce, W.R. Coile Middle School

• Mackenzie Moore, Clarke Middle School

• Jazlyn Gonzalez-Albarran, Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School

• Karlos Ortega Martinez, Hilsman Middle School.

"We are incredibly proud of our students who make this commitment to their future when they sign as REACH scholars,” said Tessa Barbazon, CCSD’s Director of School Counseling and Social-Emotional Learning and REACH coordinator for the district. “The REACH program and the support it offers our scholars not only makes college financially possible but provides the academic and social-emotional assistance to ensure each of these amazing students finds success."

CCSD will celebrate these scholars with an official signing ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 15, at the district administrative offices building, as students and their families will sign a contract agreeing to satisfy the program requirements. They will also be recognized that evening at the scheduled meeting of the Clarke County Board of Education. 

To learn more about REACH Georgia, go to reachga.org.