November 10, 2023
The Clarke County School District is pleased to announce its 2023-24 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 exhibit 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 2023-24 cohort:
- Kaydon Jones, Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School. Jones has also been selected as the overall district winner with the highest score in the district.
- Kenia Gonzalez-Chavez, W.R. Coile Middle School
- Alan Madera, Hilsman Middle School
- Miley Tenas-Balderas, Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School
- Makaylah Ballard, Clarke Middle School.
“We are very proud to celebrate another year of REACH Scholars and acknowledge CCSD’s Class of 2028 Cohort,” said Dr. Robbie Hooker, Superintendent. “We know these students will go on to do great things, and I look forward to seeing each of them grow and prepare for life beyond high school.”
CCSD formally celebrated the scholars on Thursday, Nov. 9, with an official signing ceremony and reception at the District Office. The scholars were also recognized by the Board of Education at its meeting Thursday evening.
To learn more about REACH Georgia, go to reachga.org.
