Laurus Student Surprised with $5,000 College Scholarship

Misha Berry, an eighth grader at Laurus Academy, was surprised today during a morning assembly at her school when her principal announced she was the recipient of one of six $5,000 National Heritage Academies CollegeBound Scholarships this year.

Students from 84 schools in nine states applied for a one-time college scholarship from National Heritage Academies (NHA) CollegeBound Scholarship™ program. Out of hundreds of applicants, six were awarded the $5,000 scholarship to be used for their future college endeavors.

For the scholarship, each applicant had to submit an application and an essay based on one of four provided topics. Misha wrote about the virtue of compassion and how it has helped with deal with situations both in and out of the classroom.  

Misha volunteers at a local day care and her church, is a member of the volleyball and cheer teams, and National Junior Honor Society.

“On behalf of National Heritage Academies, I want to congratulate Misha Berry on winning one of the six scholarships,” said Tari Reinink, NHA chief marketing officer. “Misha’s essay, academics, and community involvement all speak to her outstanding character and dedication to furthering her education. I wish Misha all the best in both high school and college and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.”

All eighth-grade students who attend an NHA school are eligible for the scholarship. An independent professional selection group chose the winners based on their essay submission, academics, and community service.

Ninety-three percent of the scholarship money comes directly from NHA employee donations. Many NHA employees see the scholarship fund as a way to further support students and help them on the path toward college readiness.

National Heritage Academies is a charter school management company operating 84 schools in nine states for the 2016-17 school year. It is currently serving more than 56,000 students in grades kindergarten through eighth.