Ms. Sarah “Sadie” Thompson Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship Status:
Closed
Deadline:
1 August 2026 at 11:59:00 pm
Award:
Tuition Only
Sponsored By:
Dr. Dawn Miller
IMPORTANT DATES
Application Open:
1 July 2026 at 12:00:00 am
Applications Deadline:
1 August 2026 at 11:59:00 pm
CONTACT
Ms. Angela Byrd
ABOUT THIS SCHOLARSHIP
The Ms. Sarah “Sadie” Thompson Memorial Scholarship was established in loving memory of Ms. Sarah “Sadie” Thompson and the legacy of compassion, dignity, hope, and opportunity that she represented.
Presented annually by the Free School Community Children & Family Foundation, Inc., the scholarship provides a one-time tuition award to one deserving student between the ages of 11 and 18. It is intended to help reduce the financial burden of education for a student who demonstrates genuine financial need, a commitment to learning, and a desire to build a brighter future.
The scholarship reflects the Foundation’s belief that education can create opportunity, strengthen confidence, and empower young people to positively influence their families and communities. By investing in a child’s education, the Foundation seeks to ensure that Ms. Sarah “Sadie” Thompson’s memory continues to open doors for future generations.
Scholarship funds may only be used toward eligible tuition expenses. No cash payment will be made directly to the student, parent, guardian, or family. All approved funds will be paid directly to the educational institution on behalf of the selected recipient.
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must be ages 11–18
Currently enrolled in or formally accepted to a recognized educational institution,
Demonstrate genuine financial need
Show commitment to education
Submit a complete application by the deadline
Obtain parent or guardian consent if under 18
Permit the Foundation to verify submitted information
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must submit the following:
Completed Scholarship Application
All required sections of the application must be completed accurately. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Proof of Age
Submit a clear copy of a birth certificate, passport, government-issued identification, or another official document showing the applicant’s date of birth.
Proof of Enrollment or Acceptance
Submit a current enrollment verification letter, acceptance letter, registration document, or other official confirmation from the educational institution.
Tuition Statement
Provide a current tuition invoice, fee statement, or official document showing the student’s name, institution, applicable school term or academic year, tuition amount due, and payment information.
Statement of Financial Need
The applicant, parent, or guardian must provide a written explanation describing the family’s financial circumstances and why tuition assistance is needed.
Applicant Essay
Submit an original essay of approximately 300 to 500 words addressing:
The applicant’s educational and career goals.
Why education is important to the applicant.
Challenges the applicant has experienced or overcome.
How the scholarship would support the applicant’s education.
How the applicant hopes to contribute positively to their family or community.
The essay should reflect the applicant’s own experiences, ideas, and voice.
Academic Record
Submit the applicant’s most recent report card, progress report, academic transcript, or other available record demonstrating participation and progress in school.
Academic excellence is not the only basis for selection. The Foundation may also consider effort, improvement, perseverance, conduct, and commitment to learning.
Letter of Recommendation
Provide one recommendation from a teacher, principal, guidance counsellor, coach, religious leader, community leader, or youth mentor.
The recommendation must not be written by an immediate family member.
Parent or Guardian Consent
Applicants younger than 18 must provide authorization from a parent or legal guardian allowing participation in the scholarship selection process and permitting the Foundation to verify submitted information.
Applicant Certification
The applicant and parent or guardian must certify that all submitted information is true, complete, and authentic. False or misleading information may result in disqualification or withdrawal of the award.