Questa Education Foundation and AWS Foundation proudly announce the first cohort of AWS School Psychology Scholars. This innovative program is designed to support current educators pursuing career transitions to become school psychologists. This pilot program underscores both organizations' commitment to addressing the growing demand for assessment and academic support in schools, while providing access to continued education and professional resources for local teachers.
Four aspiring school psychologists have been selected to receive forgivable loan funding to support their four-year graduate program through Indiana University Kokomo. Up to 100% of this loan is forgiven when students graduate and commit to working as a school psychologist for at least five years for their nominating school district.
As part of this comprehensive initiative, each scholar will receive internship and clinical experience through collaboration with their sponsoring school districts. This cohort of scholars represent Fort Wayne Community Schools, East Allen County Schools, and MSD of Wabash County school systems.
“With the increasing need for assessment and intervention in schools, this program will help fill a void while also investing in the professional development of our local teachers,” said Patti Hays, CEO at AWS Foundation. “Our partnership with Questa Education Foundation reflects our shared vision of empowering individuals and fostering inclusive, supportive environments.”
Questa and AWS Foundation also partner to provide financial support for individuals pursuing a certification, licensure and/or degree in special education, as well as support for graduate degrees in speech-language pathology. Now in its sixth year, the AWSF Special Education program has funded over 70 scholars and, to date, 98% of graduates are working as special education teachers in local public schools. The AWS Speech-Language Pathology program has funded over 10 scholars, with 100% of graduates working as speech-language pathologists in public school districts in Northeast Indiana.
“Our partnership with AWS Foundation is a perfect example of collaboration to meet talent needs in our community,” said Elizabeth Bushnell, executive director of Questa Education Foundation. “Questa partners with several local employers to help students with funding to make their education possible, prepare professionals needed in our workforce, and help partnering employers meet hiring needs.”
This partnership not only offers financial assistance to local scholars but also strengthens the pipeline of trained professionals entering the educational workforce. For more information, visit www.questafoundation.org/aws.