What is the Tennessee Scholars Program?

The Tennessee Scholars program is a course of study that encourages students to take more demanding classes in high school. The curriculum provides an education that better prepares students to enter a technical school, a community college, a university or the work force.

Who are Tennessee Scholars?

Tennessee Scholars are high school students who have completed the Tennessee Scholars Course of Study, a specific sequence of academic courses in math, science, language arts, and social studies. Tennessee Scholars is based on the data that proves a larger percentage of students who complete a more rigorous course of study in high school are more successful in college and the workforce.

Why Become a Tennessee Scholar?

As a Tennessee Scholar, students are recognized by teachers, parents and community leaders as students who accept challenges and set high goals for success.

Choices:

After graduating as a Tennessee Scholar, students are better prepared to enter the work force or to attend a college, university or trade school.

Better Jobs:

Employers prefer to hire individuals with strong academic backgrounds and sound decision making and critical thinking skills to fill good, well-paying jobs.

College:

Tennessee Scholars are stronger candidates for certain types of financial aid and scholarships. Statistics show that Scholars graduates score higher on both the ACT and SAT and have a greater chance of being accepted to the college or university of their choice.

What Role do Parents Play in the Tennessee Scholars Program?

Parents are crucial to the student's success in the Scholars Program. In the 8th grade, each student will prepare a state-recommended high school four-year plan with the help of parents or school counselors. Parents should work with the counselor to help their children meet Tennessee Scholar course requirements. Most importantly, a parent's encouragement and support are essential in helping a student succeed in this challenging academic program.

What Part Does the Community Play?

The Tennessee Scholars Program is a business-led partnership between businesses and the schools. Business people provide leadership and incentives for students who stay on track.

For more information on Tennessee Scholars in your school, contact your school counselor.

email Ruth Woodall, Tennessee Scholars State Director