Congratulations to our two 2025 Equity in Education Scholarship Winners!


What is the Equity in Education Scholarship?
The Equity in Education scholarship fund is a partnership between The Hagerstown Area Religious Council and Washington County Public Schools. Multiple scholarships are awarded annually ranging from $1,500 to $7,000 to racially minoritized students (with preference to African American students) who reside and/or teach in Washington County, Maryland, and are pursuing a degree in education or a related field. Scholarships may be eligible for renewal until degree is obtained.
Application period: February 1 – March 31 annually.
Who is this for?
- High school graduates just accepted into college
- Para-professionals or associate’s degree holders seeking a teaching certification.
- Anyone seeking a degree in education or a related field (i.e. teaching, school counseling, etc.
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be racially-minoritized student
- Accepted into an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program and pursuing a degree in education or a related field or accepted into a Master of Arts in Teaching program
- Resident of Washington County, Maryland, or employee of WCPS
- Recipients must maintain employment as a substitute teacher or paraprofessional with Washington County Public Schools (certain exceptions may be considered)
Requirements of Scholarship Recipients:
- Recipients will be assigned a mentor and/or team to support them during their scholarship period. Active communication with your mentor and/or the team is required; and
- Maintain a minimum of 2.5 GPA
- Continue to pursue a degree in education
How much to expect and use of funds:
The scholarship amount is determined by the applicant’s course load, tuition costs, and/or degree program. Examples of allowable expenses include:
- Tuition (preferred)
- Books and Supplies
- Room & Board
- Other allowable expenses may include: rent, childcare, transportation, etc.
Donations wanted!
We are seeking donations for the 2026-2027 scholarship cycle and to build an endowment to continually fund this scholarship in the future. Donations can be made through the HARC website designated to the “Equity in Education Scholarship.”