REACH Scholars Announced
The Banks County School System recently celebrated its 4th REACH Awards Ceremony, recognizing the 2024-2025 REACH Scholars. This prestigious program, part of REACH Georgia, supports students through mentorship, academic coaching, and financial scholarships, helping them graduate high school and excel in higher education. Since its inception, nineteen Banks County students have participated in this impactful program.
Students who complete the program requirements will receive a scholarship of up to $10,000 ($2,500 per academic year maximum) to be used towards the cost of attendance at a HOPE-eligible postsecondary institution in Georgia.
About the REACH Program
- Mentoring: Scholars are paired with mentors who model positive behavior, offering advice, guidance, and support related to education and beyond.
- Coaching: Academic coaches monitor student progress, assist in developing education and career plans, and provide academic and social support.
- Financial Scholarships: Qualifying REACH Scholars receive financial assistance upon high school graduation to aid their college journey.
2024-2025 REACH Scholars
This year's REACH Scholars were recognized for their academic excellence, strong character, and commitment to their future. Below are the scholars, their goals, and the scholarships they were awarded:
Eden Isabella Bless, a recipient of the MetroSite Scholarship, has her sights set on a future in law. Although she has yet to decide on a college, she plans to major in law and aspires to become a district attorney. Eden enjoys drawing and is a leader in the Sources of Strength program.
Delilah Emma Deanna Murray, the recipient of the Commerce Café Scholarship, aims to study equine science at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. Her passion is learning about animals; she also enjoys playing tennis, writing poems, and drawing.
Oscar Jesus Reyes, awarded the ETM Memorial Scholarship (UpState Curb), plans to attend Emory University to pursue a law degree. With a passion for cooking and watching TV shows, Oscar’s ultimate goal is to become a lawyer.
Lexie Grace Roberts, honored with the Hoyt & Ruth Parson Phi Delta Chapter Eastern Star Scholarship, has a passion for automotive engineering and plans to pursue a degree in the field. Lexie is actively involved in FFA forestry and lawn mower mechanics and hopes to build a career as an automotive engineer.
The Banks County School System sincerely acknowledges the generosity and support of this year’s scholarship sponsors: MetroSite, Commerce Country Café, UpState Curb, and Hoyt & Ruth Parson, Phi Delta Chapter Eastern Star.
REACH Scholars commit to a comprehensive contract to ensure academic and personal success. They must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, demonstrate good attendance and behavior, and remain drug- and crime-free. Scholars meet with their assigned mentor twice a month and their academic coach at least once a month. They also participate in REACH program activities and engage in college preparation initiatives. Scholars pledge to graduate from high school with a diploma and enroll in and graduate from a HOPE-eligible college or university in Georgia.
Congratulations to the 2024-2025 REACH Scholars for their hard work and dedication to achieving their dreams!