Scholarships and College Grants for Elementary Education Students
January 4th, 2010
There are many financial aid options available for those studying to become elementary school teachers. The diversity in types of scholarships and college grants available for elementary education students is a reflection of the diverse types of people that choose to make a career in education.
Federal aid is the bulwark around which other financial aid types revolve. Always check out federal government student aid options. Certain scholarships under the umbrella of federal aid are school specific and may also come with the rider that you are not availing any other type of federal or state financial aid. You should keep this in mind when formulating a plan to organizing funds for your elementary education course.
Many college- and state-specific scholarships and grants require your FAFSA scores; have them ready so you can furnish them when asked for.
If you are a student teacher, then there are certain grants and scholarships reserved for you. The American Federation of Teachers is a good online resource to look up financial aid options for student teachers.
Elementary education students are eligible for scholarships meant for general education-related scholarships as well as the subject-specific ones targeted at them. Professional associations and foundations fostering education are a great place to look for scholarships and grants. The Kersey/Oglesby Scholarship under the Prospective Educator Scholarships managed by Phi Delta Kappa International supports elementary education students. The scholarship lists preference for a male student. Conversely there are many scholarships and grants meant to encourage women to take up teaching.
There are specific scholarships for minorities and low-income students. These can be available at the federal, state, and even college level. There are scholarships for single women, divorcees, military personnel, etc that aim to help them complete their education.
You could also attract a scholarship if you pledge to work in a rural / semi-urban setting as an elementary school teacher for a specified period of time.