The Foundation for Clovis Schools hosted a gala Wednesday night to honor and support hardworking students dealt a difficult hand.

The nonprofit organization that supports Clovis Unified annually rewards a select group of juniors who are battling challenges with Students of Promise scholarships.

“It’s an opportunity… to really look at our student community and single out for recognition students who are just quietly persevering through some challenges that really would bring adults to their knees and say to them, you know, we’re proud of you. We see you,” said district spokesperson Kelly Avants.

16 Students Recognized This Year

This year, the foundation will recognize and award $2,000 scholarships to 16 students. They receive the scholarships upon graduation and enrollment in further education.

“This scholarship is a way for us to recognize the tremendous potential in these students and to show our confidence in their futures,” said Foundation Chair Josh Phanco. “Our hope is that it adds to their already remarkable motivation to continue pursuing their goals and to finish high school strong.”

These young students have faced extreme life difficulties, ranging from medical issues to loss of a loved one to housing insecurities, but they continued to make school a priority.

The gala is all about making these pupils realize how special they are. It included a red-carpet walk, elegant dinner, and presentation of awards by Phanco and district superintendent Corrine Folmer.

Community donations from local businesses and private donors fund the event and scholarships, Avants said.

Teachers Nominate Students for the Scholarships

Clovis Unified educators, best positioned to know students in action, nominate pupils they feel fit the criteria. Then, the foundation selects 16 to 17 students for awards.

This process occurs during students’ junior year, ensuring they know they have guaranteed support.

“It’s about opening a door into a future opportunity for college or technical trade schools after they graduate from high school,” Avants said. “We see the junior year as a pivotal point for students as they’re making those plans for post-high school enrollment into a college or university, really wanting them to know that it is possible and that they can do the things that they’re setting out to do.”