An Armuchee High School senior has been named a 2007 LeTendre Scholar by the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth (NAEHCY.)  The senior student was one of only 16 seniors from across the country to earn a “top scholar” award.  The award is presented by the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth in conjunction with the LeTendre Education Fund Scholarships.  The student and the other 16 recipients across the country will each receive a $1,500 scholarship and travel to the national conference to receive the award.  The conference will be held November 10-13, 2007 in Portland, Oregon.  The scholarship may be used to help defray the costs of college tuition, application fees, books, prep courses, visits to prospective colleges, or other educational expenses.

According to the NAEHCY web site, children and youth in homeless situations face numerous barriers to educational success.  Deep poverty, high mobility, and school requirements often make attending and succeeding in school a challenge.  Despite these challenges, many students who experience homelessness not only graduate from high school, but wish to pursue a college education.  Melanie Watson, a Floyd County School Social Worker, agrees this Armuchee senior has overcome many of those same obstacles.  “This student has been essentially on her own and is still succeeding in high school,” Watson said.  “She has held down a job, taken care of her own expenses, and still kept up her school work at a very high level.”

The LeTendre Education Fund was established in 1998 in memory of Andre’ E. LeTendre, husband of Mary Jean LeTendre, former Director of Compensatory Education for the U.S. Department of Education.  The LeTendre Education Fund provides scholarship assistance to students who are homeless or have experienced homelessness.  Andre’ was a friend and mentor to many young people and was especially committed to helping children in homeless situations.

Students are evaluated for the scholarship based on:

• Demonstrated commitment to education during the experience of homelessness
• Academic achievement and accomplishments
• Discussion of how the scholarship money would be used
• Statement of goals and career interests
• Grammar and use of language

Due to their situation, many students wish not to be recognized by name for their accomplishment.  However, the community can still participate in helping to ensure that deserving students get the most from the funds available from the LeTendre’ Fund.  Donations of frequent flyer miles are being accepted for student travel to the conference in Portland.  You may also make a financial contribution to the fund.  The less money spent on travel will mean more money available for scholarships to deserving students.

You may make checks payable to the LeTendre’ Education Fund. 

Mail contributions to:
The LeTendre’ Education Fund
c/o the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth
P.O. Box 26274
Minneapolis, MN  55426