Doorways Spotlight: Seniors Shine

Last month, 305 Pinellas County high school seniors received their diplomas and the added confidence of knowing their college education or technical school training is paid for as Doorways scholarships worth $3,492,000 were awarded.  Three of the Doorways seniors have earned their way to the top of their classes this year.  Anneliese Delgado-Cate is the valedictorian at Lakewood High, Anthony Castro is the valedictorian at Pinellas Park High and Alfredo Kiernan is the traditional salutatorian at St. Petersburg High.  This is the second consecutive year that St. Petersburg and third year Pinellas Park has had a Doorways senior graduating at the top of their class.

Since the program’s inception in 1992, the Doorways Scholarship program has given more than 3,000 Pinellas County students with demonstrated financial need, the incentive to work toward the goal of a college education or advanced technical studies. In addition to college tuition funds, the comprehensive program offers student mentors who provide inspiration and guidance and school-based ambassadors who monitor student progress and enhance student learning through enrichment activities.

Achieving an impressive 85% retention and graduation rate, the Doorways program has been so successful it has become a national program model. Through the support of businesses, civic groups, organizations and individuals who invest their resources, the Doorways Donor contributions are matched dollar-for-dollar by the State of Florida. That means that every contribution, no matter the size, will be doubled in value. The Doorways program partners with the statewide Take Stock in Children program.

To learn more or make a donation to the program visit the Pinellas Education Foundation website or contact the Pinellas Education Foundation at 727-588-4816. The Pinellas Education Foundation is an independent, non-governmental not for profit organization whose mission is to enhance and improve education in Pinellas County Public Schools.