Scholars Program

An application form, a laptop, and a pen sit on a white desk.

>> Application for Cohort 3, 2024-2025

Applications for the Ruth Harris Scholars program typically open in February of each year and have a March deadline. Past application requirements are provided below.

As a part of this program, the Virginia Department of Education collaborates with VCU teacher education students (i.e., special education, early childhood, elementary or secondary education) who are Ruth Harris Scholars to provide:

A 30-hour training (spring/summer) at no cost, provided by the Virginia Department of Education.
20 hours of tutoring under the supervision of Orton-Gillingham certified classroom educators from Richmond City Public Schools (5 additional hours of observation)1,000 scholarship from the Ruth Harris endowment funds upon completing fall tutoring responsibilities
a $500 stipend from T/TAC upon completing fall tutoring responsibilities

Interested students must be accepted into Teacher Preparation with at least 1 year remaining of coursework in the upcoming academic year

Requirements

Interest in reading instruction
Acceptance to Teacher Preparation
Minimum 2.8 GPA and in good academic standing
Demonstrated leadership qualities
Strong communication and interpersonal relations skills
Commitment to advancing access, equity, and quality education for underrepresented learners within low-resource communities, including a commitment to addressing diversity, inclusion, social justice, and equity in education/special education
Commitment to participate in all training dates
Recommendation from a faculty member that addresses your leadership qualities, communication and interpersonal skills, promise for classroom instruction, and commitment to supporting and advancing equity in education.
200-300 word essay explaining your interest in the program and how your skills align with the application criteria