Foundation aids White River students

The White River Education Foundation will sponsor 336 White River High School juniors who will take the Preliminary SAT.

The PSAT is a standardized test that covers critical reading, math problem-solving and writing skills and provides firsthand practice for the SAT, which is required as an entrance test by many colleges and universities.

Paying the fees to take the test is part of the continuing commitment the Foundation made to enable students to explore post-secondary career and educational opportunities, according to White River Education Foundation Vice President Michelle Peckham.

Typically, she said, 85 to 100 White River juniors take the test. With the Foundation’s help, “pretty much the whole junior class” will be taking the PSAT.

Founded more than three years ago with a mission to provide the district’s youth the opportunity to achieve educational excellence and realize their full potential, the foundation now has its nonprofit status and continues to move forward.

In April, the group hosted a career night for middle school students. In May, it handed out its first scholarship to 2009 graduate Luke Allpress. The award – $1,000 a year for four years – will help cover his expenses at the University of Washington.

Run by a nine-member board, the Foundation continues to drum up interest. Currently there’s a need and desire for new members. Peckham’s seat, along with that of treasurer Lisa Nunn, will open in December. Foundation member Cheri Cawley’s position on the board will also be open.

Peckham said the board does not want to lose its momentum.

The Foundation’s vision is to be the catalyst that creates opportunities, connects with community and supports practices that enhance education in the the school district. It also sees itself promoting student mentorship activities, partnering with established community resources to enhance and strengthen programs and coordinating programs that support students and their parents in the preparation for continued education following high school.

Foundation members meet at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month in the school district’s board/conference room and welcome the public. For information, visit www.whiterivereducationfoundation.org.