Ruth Harris Scholars Program
The Ruth Harris Scholars Program is a collaboration between the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), the Training and Technical Assistance Center at VCU (T/TAC), and the SOE Dean's Office.
Scholars, all of whom are VCU teacher education students in special education, elementary, or secondary education, are provided with (no cost) professional learning opportunities. Ruth Harris Scholars who complete all requirements will receive a Credly badge.
Application Process
Applications for the Ruth Harris Scholars program typically open in February of each year:
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
- $500 stipend from T/TAC upon completing fall tutoring responsibilities
Interested students must be accepted into Educator Preparation with at least 1 year remaining of coursework in the upcoming academic year.
Application 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 participate in all training dates
- 200-300 word essay explaining your interest in the program and how your skills align with the application criteria
- Current resume (highlight your experiences that align with the program)
- Recommendation from an employer, faculty member, or other professional reference that addresses your leadership qualities, communication and interpersonal skills, promise for classroom instruction, and commitment to supporting and advancing equity in education
- Commitment to advancing access, equity, and quality education for underrepresented learners within low-resourced communities, including a commitment to addressing diversity, inclusion, social justice, and equity in education/special education
