District 214 launches Twitter-based scholarship
High School District 214 has launched a Twitter-based scholarship contest, asking current seniors to share how they are college or career ready beyond a test score.
The competition is inspired by District 214's "Redefining Ready!" initiative designed to more accurately determine college and career readiness. "Redefining Ready!" includes various metrics, including success in Advanced Placement or dual credit classes, completion of internships or industry certifications and co-curricular participation to better assess students' potential for postsecondary success.
In a video no longer than 30 seconds, students must use one or more of those metrics to explain why they are college or career ready. The district will award up to two $1,000 scholarships, funded by AASA, The School Administrators Association, and an anonymous donor.
Students must post their videos to Twitter, using the #RedefiningReady hashtag and tagging @District214 in their scholarship entry tweet. Students can use phones, iPads or video cameras to film the videos, which will be judged on compelling content. Creativity is encouraged.
"We are looking for compelling, genuine stories about how one or two of these metrics have better shaped and positioned our students for success," said Erin Brooks, executive director of the District 214 Education Foundation, which received the anonymous donation and is spearheading the contest. "We want to know how the opportunities within District 214, and the hard work of our students, helped propel them forward. We're excited to see the entries."
As part of the contest, students must also fill out a brief application and return it to their college counselor. Winners will be determined by a committee of administrators and college counselors.
The contest runs through Friday, April 15, and is open to all District 214 seniors. Applications can be found at www.d214.org/foundation or at the College and Career Center in each high school. To learn more about "Redefining Ready!" visit www.redefiningready.org.
Students with specific questions about the contest should contact their college counselors. Community members interested in learning more can contact Brooks at erin.brooks@d214.org.