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Early College High School Program students presented with pin and certificate of excellence

Dr. BC at Smart Scholar ceremony with students
Early College High School Program students presented with pin and certificate of excellence

On Wednesday, November 9, 2022, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Waveline Bennett-Conroy celebrated each of the 75 students in the Smart Scholars program. Early College High School Program students were also presented with a pin and certificate of excellence at the board of education meeting.

Dr. Bennett-Conroy stresses the importance of putting students and families first. She discussed how proud she was that these scholars were going above and beyond to stick with these classes.

Dr. BC at SMART Scholars ceremony

“When Mercy College came down to register these students, I was at STEAM (Academy) and I stood there like a proud mother,” said Dr. Bennett-Conroy.

During the meeting, students from each school also had the opportunity to speak about what the program means to them.

“When I started this program in the ninth grade, I had no idea what to expect,” said Charlize Polanco, an eleventh-grader at Denzel Washington School of the Arts. “This program has provided a great educational experience and I am one of the great scholars to soon achieve an associate degree.”

“I think that to be a Smart Scholar student you have to be endeavoring and always trying to achieve more,” said Iniesta Williams, an eleventh-grade student at Mount Vernon STEAM Academy.

The Smart Scholar grant is a federal grant that funds the Early College High School Program and provides students with an opportunity to take college courses while still attending high school. The program propels students ahead not only academically but also financially. While earning their high school degree, students will have completed 60 college credits that can be transferred to any college.

“When you are a high school student taking college classes your mindset changes,” said Tah'Nyla Greenaway, an eleventh-grade student at Mount Vernon High School. “You think about what is important and your responsibilities.”

“Join me in saluting our committed and diligent scholars,” said Dr. Bennett-Conroy. “They have made us very proud.

To learn more about this program please visit our website at: https://www.mtvernoncsd.org/departments/school-improvement/academic-supports/smart-scholars-program

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