Perry County Retired Teachers Fund Future Educators

Teachers who've dedicated their careers to education aren't done making a difference yet. The Perry County Retired Teachers Association is offering a $750 scholarship to help future educators complete their teaching degrees in the 2025-2026 academic year.

The award targets college juniors and seniors enrolled in education programs who graduated from Perry County high schools. This year, graduates of Sheridan High School get first consideration as part of a rotating system that cycles through all county school districts.

The scholarship represents nearly three decades of commitment to education. Since 1997, retired teachers have pooled their resources to support students who choose teaching as their calling, ensuring the profession attracts dedicated talent year after year.

Applications are due by June 1, 2026, and require an essay and official transcript. The winner will be announced at the association's June 23 meeting at Trotter's Pub and Grill in New Lexington, where the community will celebrate another future teacher getting support.

The Ripple Effect

When retired educators invest in future teachers, they're creating a cycle of giving that touches countless lives. Each scholarship recipient will eventually teach hundreds of students over their career, multiplying the impact of this $750 investment many times over.

The association welcomes contributions from any Perry County resident who wants to strengthen education in their community. Every dollar added to the fund helps ensure another aspiring teacher can focus on their studies instead of financial stress.

Applications are available at all Perry County district libraries, making the opportunity accessible to every eligible student. The straightforward process removes barriers that might discourage qualified candidates from applying.

This scholarship proves that retirement doesn't mean stepping away from your life's work. These former teachers continue shaping education by helping the next generation afford the training they need to succeed in the classroom.