Over a period of several years, individuals donated small sums of money to Byron High School to establish a scholarship fund. The funds were deposited in a separate, interest bearing account with the intent to establish a scholarship fund. In April 1991, a committee composed of interested community members was organized and in September 1991, the Byron Community Scholarship Fund (BCSF) was established as a restricted fund under the auspices of the Shiawassee Foundation, a Michigan Community Foundation.

Is the BCSF controlled by the Byron Schools?

No.  Although the BCSF works closely with the school, the fund is operated independently by a committee comprised of community members.

What type of scholarships are awarded?

 Scholarships are awarded to Byron High School graduates and may be used to assist in paying tuition and/or book expenses for higher education at accredited institutions.

When was the first scholarship awarded?   

The first scholarship of $250 was awarded in May, 1992.  How much and how many scholarships are awarded each year? The size and number of scholarships depend on the amount of interest income received from the fund's principal balance, which reached $164,000 in 2007.  To date, $67,500 has been awarded in scholarships.  All scholarships are awarded from the interest income. This enables the fund to continue indefinitely.

What are the eligibility requirements to receive a scholarship? 

Recipients must have graduated from Byron High School and have been admitted to, and enrolled in, an accredited trade/vocational school or college.

Can a past scholarship recipient re-apply for scholarships in future years?

 Yes. There is no limit as to how many times one person may receive a BCSF scholarship

Who chooses the recipients?

A selection committee made up of a community member, an elementary school teacher, and a BCSF committee member screen applicants and make recommendations to the entire BCSF committee, which makes the final choices.

What criteria is used to judge applications? 

Scholarship awards are based upon the following criteria, all of which are given equal consideration:

• Community service
• Financial need
• Grade point average
• One page essay

What is an accredited school? 

Accredited institutions may include technical and/or vocational schools as well as two and four year colleges. The Michigan Department of Education in Lansing accredits schools. For more information call: 2 & 4 year colleges (517) 373-6551 Vocational & Technical Schools (517) 373-6774

Can I be a member of the BCSF and who can I contactor more information? 

Anyone interested in joining the BCSF is welcome. Meetings are held in the high school library. (Check Schedule for meeting dates) If you are un- able to attend the meetings, but wish to donate your time assisting in other ways, call Ron Leix at (810) 266-6242.

Are contributions to the fund tax deductible? 

Yes. The BCSF is administered through the Shiawassee Community Foundation, a non- profit foundation which serves the Shiawassee County area. In addition to the federal tax deduction, you may also receive a Michigan tax credit for donations made to the BCSF.

How do I contact committee members? 

Byron High School:   Dr. Mark Miller   (810) 266-4881

BCSF:  Ron Leix   (810) 266-6242

Shiawassee Community Foundation: Carol Soule   (989) 725-1093

 

How do I make a contribution?

Contributions should be made payable to: