Grants & Scholarships

Cathy Denise Moraga attended Mark Twain Middle School over 30 years ago. She was an outstanding student, was Student Body President, participated in sports and community service. After a sudden illness and untimely passing, the students of Mark Twain honored her memory by renaming the library in her honor. Her family then created a scholarship in her honor.

 

The Cathy Denise Moraga scholarship winner is announced during the culmination ceremony. The recipient will receive a plaque at the ceremony and then upon graduating from Venice High School, and enrolling in a college, university or accredited trade school, they will receive $1,000 to be used towards the cost of educational expenses.

 

The following is required to apply:

• B average (3.0 GPA) or better during 8th grade year. *
• No U’s (unsatisfactory marks) during 8th grade year. *
• Good attendance and behavior (at least 9 Es on semester report card, and no more than 7 absences and 5 tardies within the current school year). *
• Students must enroll in and graduate from Venice High School.

*Grades and attendance verified by first semester and third quarter progress reports from semester two.

 

Outstanding school and community service will strongly support your application, including but not limited to:

• Leadership Class Representative
• Volunteer and church or house of worship
• Member of a club
• Performing Arts (dance, music, bells, etc)
• School Beautification
• Yearbook
• Community clean up
• Peer Leadership
• Academic Decathlon
• Athletic participation/accomplishments
• Any service to others not listed

Application Essay is due on Friday, May 19th to Ms. Olinger in Room 106 before the end of the school day. A committee made up of teachers and staff, as well as Cathy’s sister, Mrs. Linda Gonzalez, will review essays, verify grades and attendance to select a winner, who will be announced at the culmination ceremony. Students will meet with Mrs. Gonzalez in the library to introduce themselves and to explain why they are a good candidate for the award. Please write your advisory room number on the application so that you can be invited to present your essay to the committee.

 

In your essay, please address the following questions:

 

1. Why do you feel you deserve the scholarship? How do you plan to use it to further your education?

 

2. What awards and honors have you received?

 

3. What type of community service have you participated in?

 

4. What are your athletic and/or extracurricular accomplishments?

 

Good Luck!