New Century Scholars is a program that selects three seventh graders annually and pledges to mentor them through high school graduation.

If a scholar has maintained good school attendance, grades, and citizenship, remained drug and alcohol-free, and performed volunteer service hours, the program guarantees him or her a tuition-free, two-year education at Isothermal Community College.

Two students who are seniors at Polk County High School (PCHS) have almost completed their six-year commitment in the New Century Scholars Program.

Daniel Schoren, another senior previously featured in an article, is scheduled to graduate this year as well.

His grandfather, Dick Armstrong, is a member of the Isothermal Community College (Polk Campus) Foundation Board.

Now we’d like to introduce you to Lakeyah Simpson and Taylor Stapleton, seniors at PCHS and New Century Scholars.

 

Lakeyah Simpson

Q. What does it mean to you to be a New Century Scholar?

A. It means that it is one of many opportunities and it is an honor.

Q. What are your plans for the future?

A. I hope to go to a four-year college and become a pediatric RN or a physician assistant.

Q. Have you always wanted to attend college? If so, why?

A. Yes. I want to make something of myself and I’ve always wanted to help people.

Q. What are some of the volunteer activities in which you participate?

A. I do most of my volunteer hours at my church through yard sales, canned food drives, etc.

But, I also help with the blood drive and vision screenings for elementary schools.

Taylor Stapleton

Q. What does it mean to you to be a New Century Scholar?

A. It feels refreshing to know that I was noticed for my academics and hard work.

Q. What are your plans for the future?

A. My plans are to attend college and get a degree in dance and journalism.

Q. Have you always wanted to attend college? If yes, why?

A. Yes. I’ve always wanted to attend so I could pursue my dream job in dancing and journalism. I’ve taken journalism every semester during my four years in high school.

Q. What are some of the volunteer activities in which you participate?

A. I am the editor of the Polk County Yearbook and I am president of the Interact Club.