PASADENA, Texas – The Chesmar Foundation and San Jacinto College Foundation are proud to announce their partnership through the Chesmar Teacher Scholarship Fund, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting Texas residents pursuing a 4-year teaching degree at the College. This scholarship program not only provides financial assistance to aspiring educators but also addresses the critical need for qualified teachers in high-need school districts, particularly in urban areas.
The Chesmar Foundation has committed a total of $900,000 to the Chesmar Teacher Scholarship Fund, with half allocated for direct scholarship support. These funds will cover tuition, fees, and other associated course materials for program completion. Additionally, $450,000 will be allocated for Alternative Certification Program testing support, ensuring that graduating students can become fully licensed to teach in the state of Texas.
"We are excited about the Chesmar Teacher Scholarship Fund and the impact it will have on aspiring educators,” said Robert Cage, executive director of the San Jacinto College Foundation. “Through this partnership with the Chesmar Foundation, San Jacinto College aims to empower students to become highly qualified teachers, addressing the shortage of educators in our community."
The scholarship program targets 100 students with financial need enrolled in San Jacinto College’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Education. Scholars will have the opportunity for renewed funding each semester until the completion of their degree program, provided they meet established eligibility requirements.
The new Bachelor in Education degree curriculum at San Jacinto College is designed with built-in student teaching opportunities, preparing each student to enter the classroom immediately after program completion. The College is also establishing partnerships with local school districts, including Crosby ISD, Deer Park ISD, Pasadena ISD, and Sheldon ISD, to promote scholarship opportunities and provide gainful employment opportunities for graduates.
For more information about the Chesmar Teacher Scholarship Fund and application details, visit the San Jacinto College web site.
About San Jacinto College Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today,
and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris
County, Texas, since 1961. The College is one of the top 10 community colleges in
the nation as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving the Dream
Leader College of Distinction in 2020. The College is a Hispanic-Serving Institution
that spans five campuses, serving approximately 45,000 credit and non-credit students
annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas
of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter
the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA+ by Standard
& Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s.