Petal Education Foundation

The Foundation's Mission is to enhance the quality of education in the Petal School District by providing private funding to have a positive impact on our public schools.
Christy Hinnant
Executive Director
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 948, Petal, MS, 39465
P: 601.545.3002
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- Friends of the Foundation Sponsors
- Goals
- Funding
- Scholarships
- Mini Grants
- Early Childhood Education
- Car Tags
- Champion of the Year
- Board of Directors
Friends of the Foundation Sponsors
Goals
The goal of the Foundation is to enhance the quality of education in the district by:
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Rewarding PSD graduates with scholarships
- Encouraging innovative programs through teacher mini-grants
- Assisting the Early Childhood and Family Support programs
- Supporting the district's Department of Activities
- Specific educational initiatives
- Recruitment and retention of teachers and staff
Funding
The Foundation receives contributions from local businesses, alumni and individuals dedicated to improving education in the district. Tax-deductible donations support projects beyond the district's operating budget. PEF accepts various forms of property—cash, bonds, stocks, real estate, life insurance and personal items—for general or donor-specified purposes.
Scholarships
The Scholarship Review Committee selects recipients based on submitted by applications. Criteria associated with a particular scholarship must be followed to be a candidate for that scholarship. The selection review committee makes their selections, and the recipient is notified before the Scholarship Recognition Brunch.
Scholarships to be Applied for
- Addison McKinley Memorial Scholarship
- Addison Morgan ‘Shine Your Light’ Scholarship
- Allen Flynt "Big Al" Memorial Scholarship
- Anderson Brothers Leadership Scholarship
- Beth Havard English/Education Memorial Scholarship
- Blossman Gas Community Scholarship
- Bob & Kristi Pierce Senior Class President Scholarship
- Bobby Drake Athletic Scholarship
- Bruce Magee Education Scholarship
- Burkett Ross, Sr. Academic Excellence Athletic Scholarship
- C.D. Kolbo Scholarship
- Charlton (Carlton) “Dennis” Myers Award
- Class of 1956 Scholarship
- Coach Marcus Boyles Legacy Scholarship
- Coach Si Thompson’s “Bootstrap” Scholarship
- Debbie Nobles Teacher Education Scholarship
- Dee Dee & Robert Lowery Accounting/Business Scholarship
- Don M. Graham Memorial Business Scholarship
- Dr. Billy and Mrs. Joan Medical Science Scholarship
- Dr. Chuck Harrell Health Scholarship
- Dr. James Hutto Education Scholarship
- Dr. Matthew L. Dillon Leadership Scholarship
- Earl Porter Cross Scholarship
- Edith Easterling James Education Scholarship
- Elizabeth Clinton Wilson Community Engagement Scholarship
- Elizabeth Dabbs Brock “Fight the Good Fight” Memorial Scholarship
- Eugene Smith “Keeping The Light On” Memorial Scholarship
- Everyone Can Help Someone Scholarship-First Responder (Medical & Law Enforcement)
- Excel By 5 Parents As Teachers Scholarship
- “Friends of the Foundation” PSD Employee Dependent Scholarship
- Gail McInnis Choral Scholarship
- Gary Jackson Graves ‘The Legend’ Memorial Scholarship
- Gene High Memorial Scholarship-Medical/Science/Math Scholarship
- H.R. Nobles Scholarship
- H & S Robotics Club Scholarship
- Ione Ginn Bond Education Scholarship
- Jennifer Trussell Purvis Memorial Music Scholarship
- Jimmy Havard Community Leadership Scholarship
- Jim Smith Athletic Scholarship
- Karla Hogan "Be Kind" Scholarship
- Kevin Patrick Duckworth Memorial Baseball Scholarship
- King CPA Accounting/Business/Marketing Scholarship
- Landry & Lewis Architects Scholarship for Architectural or Engineering Studies
- Larry Watkins Legacy Baseball Scholarship
- Leahne Lightsey Spirit of Community Scholarship
- Lynn Cartlidge Leadership Scholarship
- Madeline Rae Short "We Were Made To Thrive" Scholarship
- Marcus Ware Engineering Scholarship
- Milton Carpenter Scholarship
- Mississippi Scholars Program PEF Scholarship
- Mississippi Scholars Tech Masters PEF Scholarship
- Odis B. Clinton Music Scholarship
- “One of the Good Ones” – The Wes Foster Memorial Scholarship
- Peggy James Child Nutrition Employee Dependent Scholarships
- Penny Jones Alexander Stay in School Scholarship
- Petal Arts Council Scholarship
- Petal High School Junior ROTC Scholarship
- Petal Band Presidential Inaugural Scholarship
- Petal Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) Scholarship
- Petal Family YMCA IMPACT Scholarship
- Petal Optimist Club Scholarship
- Petal School District Most Outstanding Ambassador
- Petal Youth Sports Association Scholarship
- Power of the Pen Scholarship
- Randy Spears Community Pharmacy Scholarship
- Ray Perkins Athletic Scholarship
- Resinall Science/Engineering Scholarship
- R. L. & Nancy Hullum Choral Music Scholarship
- R. L. & Nancy Hullum Visual Arts Scholarship
- Robert and Dee Lowery Skills Trade Scholarship
- Robert E. Hendrix Scholarship
- Robert E. Russell, Sr. Scholarship
- Robert Taylor Sr. Memorial Golf Scholarship
- Ronnie Harrington Memorial Baseball Scholarship
- R & R Building & Construction Technology Scholarship
- Shannon Rehm Legacy Scholarship
- SPC William Anthony Blount Memorial Scholarship
- Spirit of Robert Burgess Athletic Scholarship
- William L. Wheat, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
- Willie Ratliff Memorial Scholarship
- Valerie Wilson Scholarship
- 2025 “Courage to Give” Scholarship Sponsored by Vitalant
Addison McKinley Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $1000.00
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Must Complete PEF Application
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Requirements: The recipient must pursue a degree at a college or university in Mississippi. Student must have a 3.0 GPA and a letter of recommendation from a PHS principal stating promise and potential in pursuing a college degree. An essay stating financial need, a letter of recommendation, resume and transcript are required.
Addison Morgan ‘Shine Your Light’ Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Must Complete PEF Application
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Requirements: Recipient must have QPA 90 or above. They must demonstrate Christ-like characteristics, strong citizenship and compassion towards others. They must also be involved in a fine arts program. Applicants must provide three (3) letters of recommendation (one addressing citizenship, one addressing compassion toward others and one addressing fine arts involvement.) Must also provide an essay addressing how these factors have impacted your life.
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Two scholarships will be awarded.
Allen Flynt "Big Al" Memorial Scholarship
Anderson Brothers Leadership Scholarship
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Anderson Brothers Leadership Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Must Complete PEF Application
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Requirements: The recipient must be a Petal High senior who has participated in school and community service activities, while demonstrating leadership roles, skills and abilities. Student must have maintained a 2.5 GPA, obtained a letter of recommendation and provide a resume listing community service and specific leadership roles.
Beth Havard English/Education Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Must Complete PEF Application
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Requirements: The recipient must be a student pursuing a degree in Education or English. They must have a minimum 3.25 GPA. Must provide one letter of recommendation from a language arts teacher and an essay entitled: “My Education and Career Goals.” Selection will be determined by recommendations of PHS language arts teachers, PHS principal and the PEF Scholarship committee.
Blossman Gas Community Scholarship
Bob & Kristi Pierce Senior Class President Scholarship
Bobby Drake Athletic Scholarship
Bruce Magee Education Scholarship
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Amount: $1000.00
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Complete the PEF application.
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If no student meets the scholarship requirements, teachers may apply and one selected to be awarded this.
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Requirements: Recipient must be majoring in Education. They must have a GPA of 2.5 or greater, provide an essay answering “Why are you choosing a career in education?” Must provide a letter of recommendation from at least one PSD teacher.
If no student meets the requirements, a teacher may apply through the following:
Must be a PSD employee pursuing an advanced degree (Masters, Specialist, Doctorate.) They should provide a letter of recommendation from the school principal where employed and an essay answering the question “Why are you choosing to pursue an advanced degree?”
Burkett Ross, Sr. Academic Excellence Athletic Scholarship
C.D. Kolbo Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipients must have a 2.5 GPA with a disability. Applicants must provide an essay about their disability. In the essay, address how a college degree would benefit them, and how they could be an inspiration to others with disabilities. Two letters of recommendation should be provided, based on “How this applicant would use a college degree to help others with disabilities.”
Charlton (Carlton) “Dennis” Myers Award
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Award: $250.00
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Requirements: Recipient must be enrolled in the Special Education Program at Petal High School or be a participant in one of its associated programs (ex. Project SEARCH). The student must be nominated by one of the following: student, peer, teacher or supervisor. A letter of recommendation addressing the nominee’s friendly attitude and willingness to aid other students and faculty must be provided. The recipient must be pursuing job training or employment. Funds may be used to purchase uniforms and/or equipment associated with employment. Letters of recommendation should be addressed to the Petal Education Foundation Scholarship Review Committee, P.O. Box 948, Petal, MS 39465, and be submitted by the yearly due date.
Class of 1956 Scholarship
Coach Marcus Boyles Legacy Scholarship
Coach Si Thompson’s “Bootstrap” Scholarship
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Award Amount: $1000.00
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Complete the PEF application
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Requirements: Recipient must be a Petal High School senior who has a history of unselfish participation in the academic success of others. Applicants are required to write a one-page essay stating their desire to help others succeed and connect their desire to one of The Core Beliefs of the Petal School District, describing a specific instance where the following have been exemplified:
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A person's potential to learn is limitless.
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All people have intrinsic worth.
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People are influenced more by what others do than by what they say.
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Also, must submit one brief teacher recommendation stating that you have consistently engaged in the academic success of others and that trait is an important part of your character. A GPA of 3.00 is required.
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Debbie Nobles Teacher Education Scholarship
Dee Dee & Robert Lowery Accounting/Business Scholarship
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Award: $1000.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be majoring in and pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Business. Applicants must have maintained a 2.5 GPA and been enrolled in at least one business class at Petal High School. Must provide a resume including involvement in business related clubs and activities and a letter of recommendation from a PHS business teacher.
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Priority will be given to the student majoring in accounting.
Don M. Graham Memorial Business Scholarship
- Award: $1500.00
- Complete PEF application.
- Requirements: Recipients must be attending The University of Southern Mississippi with intentions of majoring in an area of business. Applicants must have maintained a 3.0 GPA. They must submit a resume listing community service, as well as leadership positions held in school, church or community organizations. A letter of recommendation from a principal or teacher attesting to service and leadership is required.
Dr. Billy and Mrs. Joan Medical Science Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Must Complete PEF Application
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Requirements: Student must be seeking a career in the medical sciences field and have maintained a 3.5 GPA. They must provide a letter of recommendation from a current or former PHS science teacher who can attest to the student’s aptitude for medicine. Provide an essay stating career goals and a resume including community service. Priority will be given to students with financial need.
Dr. Chuck Harrell Health Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Applicant must be a senior pursuing a degree in a health related field of study. Must have a GPA 2.5. Must provide an essay stating academic and career goals in the medical field, as well as a short paragraph [100 to 200 words] indicating financial need.
Dr. James Hutto Education Scholarship
Dr. Matthew L. Dillon Leadership Scholarship
- Award: $1200.00
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Complete PEF application
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Requirements:
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GPA: Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Additional consideration is given to AP and Dual Credit course loads.
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Extracurricular Involvement: Actively participate in at least two extracurricular activities. These may include school clubs, athletics, arts, or other organized student activities. Diversity of activities and leadership roles are strongly encouraged and will receive additional consideration.
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Community Service: Demonstrate a strong commitment to service through volunteer work or participation in service-based projects. Applicants must provide evidence of their service and discuss its impact on their personal development.
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Campus Leadership: Exhibit leadership on campus through formal leadership positions (e.g., student government, club, or team leadership) or through initiatives that positively impact the school environment.
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Essay Requirement: Submit a 500-700 word essay detailing how leadership in extracurricular activities and community service has influenced your character and the way you conduct yourself. Applicants are encouraged to draw from their personal experiences and describe the impact teams and clubs have had in shaping their lives.
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Include a resume to demonstrate GPA, Extracurricular Involvement, Community Service and Leadership.
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Earl Porter Cross Scholarship
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Award: $300.00
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Complete PEF application
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Requirements: Recipient must be PHS senior with a 3.5 or better GPA and must have succeeded in the higher sciences arena (AP courses, dual enrollment, etc.) Recipient must display leadership and ability to complete a college degree program. Applicants should provide a list of all high school science courses and the grade earned, as well as 2 letters of recommendation.
Edith Easterling James Education Scholarship
Elizabeth Clinton Wilson Community Engagement Scholarship
- Award: $400.00
- Complete PEF Application.
- Applications Will Be Accepted Again for the Class of 2027.
- Requirements: This annual scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior who has demonstrated a commitment to community service. The scholarship may be awarded to the same student for four consecutive years, i.e. freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years of college, for a total of $1600.00. The student must provide evidence that they are enrolled in college or university each year in July in order to receive the scholarship after the first year. Student must maintain a 2.5 GPA with documentation and documented community service for all four years of high school. This scholarship will be awarded every four years, or until college career is interrupted.
Elizabeth Dabbs Brock “Fight the Good Fight” Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF Application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a graduating senior who has been affected by a terminal illness in their immediate family. To qualify for this scholarship, a member of the applicant's immediate family (mother, father, sibling, self, close grandparent) must have or had a terminal illness. Write an essay telling your story: “How has this illness affected your life? What have you learned from this experience?” Teacher recommendation should be provided, including a brief description of how the student has grown and persevered through their ordeal, including strengths and perseverance the student has shown.
Eugene Smith “Keeping The Light On” Memorial Scholarship
- Award: $300
- Complete PEF Application.
- Requirements: Recipient must be a graduating senior who has faced and overcome personal, academic or family-related challenges that impacted their school performance. Write an essay describing these challenges, the steps you have taken to overcome, and the lessons learned from these experiences. Letter of recommendation must be submitted.
Everyone Can Help Someone Scholarship-First Responder (Medical & Law Enforcement)
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF Application.
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Requirements: Recipient must have a 2.5 or higher GPA. Applicants must provide a letter of recommendation from an adult in the applicant’s life that is not an immediate relative. Recipient can be a student pursuing any technical or vocational training at an accredited college or university or those pursuing a career as a first responder (medical A&P; law enforcement, etc.
Excel By 5 Parents As Teachers Scholarship
“Friends of the Foundation” PSD Employee Dependent Scholarship
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Complete PEF application.
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Varies from year to year based on contributions to the “Friends of the Foundation” Annual Campaign Scholarship Fund
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Requirements: Recipient must be a graduating senior, son or daughter of a full or part time Petal School District employee and attended PHS all four years of high school. Applicants must have maintained a 3.0 GPA.
Gail McInnis Choral Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a four year member of the choral department, have a 3.0 GPA and be college bound. They must display high moral character and strong leadership skills. They must have a love of music. Applicants must write a 250- word essay stating why you think you are worthy of this scholarship.
Gary Jackson Graves ‘The Legend’ Memorial Scholarship
- Award: $500
- Complete the PEF Application.
- Requirements: Recipient must be a senior band student or Ambassador. Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA. They must submit a recommendation letter from a teacher and a paragraph or two telling about themselves. They must also write a 250-500 word essay to describe a mentor or role model who has had the greatest impact on them and why.
Gene High Memorial Scholarship-Medical/Science/Math Scholarship
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Award: $1000.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must have a 2.5 GPA. Student must be pursuing a degree in the field of medical/sciences/ or math. Consideration is given to a student who applies for this scholarship becoming the first in their family to earn a college degree. Applicants must provide a paragraph stating their eligibility and how they meet the above criteria and a letter of recommendation.
H.R. Nobles Scholarship
H & S Robotics Club Scholarship
Ione Ginn Bond Education Scholarship
Jennifer Trussell Purvis Memorial Music Scholarship
Jimmy Havard Community Leadership Scholarship
Jim Smith Athletic Scholarship
Karla Hogan "Be Kind" Scholarship
Kevin Patrick Duckworth Memorial Baseball Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must have played four years on the PHS baseball team (may include ninth grade, JV or varsity.) Applicants must have a GPA of 3.25 or better and demonstrate leadership skills that ensure success in college. Applicants must provide a resume listing leadership skills and a letter of recommendation.
King CPA Accounting/Business/Marketing Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be majoring in and pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting/Business or Marketing. Applicants must have maintained a 2.5 GPA and been enrolled in at least one business class at Petal High School. Must provide a resume including involvement in business related clubs and activities and a letter of recommendation from a PHS business teacher.
Priority will be given to the student majoring in accounting.
Landry & Lewis Architects Scholarship for Architectural or Engineering Studies
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Award: $1000.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be one of the following:
A. Student planning to attend an accredited Architectural School and majoring in architecture; or
B. Students majoring in Architectural Engineering; or
C. Students majoring in Construction Engineering; or
D. Students majoring in Civil Engineering
Applicants must provide a 250 word essay stating educational and career goals and a letter of recommendation.
Larry Watkins Legacy Baseball Scholarship
Leahne Lightsey Spirit of Community Scholarship
- Award: $1000.00
- Complete PEF application.
- Requirements: Recipient must have 2.5 GPA. Applicants must provide a resume listing school and community service activities and one letter of recommendation attesting to their community service. Must provide a list and description of documented community service hours.
Lynn Cartlidge Leadership Scholarship
Madeline Rae Short "We Were Made To Thrive" Scholarship
- Award: $650.00
- Complete PEF application.
- Requirements: The recipient must be a Petal High School senior pursuing a degree in the medical field. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay answering the question, “How has your faith allowed you to thrive despite adversity?” In addition, a letter of recommendation is required from someone who has witnessed the applicant’s adversity and triumph.
Marcus Ware Engineering Scholarship
Milton Carpenter Scholarship
Mississippi Scholars Program PEF Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient should meet all the requirements of the Mississippi Scholars Program and provide a letter of reference. Petal High School Guidance Counselors will verify all criteria have been met for Mississippi Scholars. One Mississippi Scholar will be awarded this scholarship.
Mississippi Scholars Tech Masters PEF Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient should meet all the requirements of the Mississippi Scholars Tech Masters Program and complete PHS Career Technical Tech Masters application.
Odis B. Clinton Music Scholarship
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Award: $400.00
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Complete PEF application
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Given to a PHS band member in even years and a PHS choral student in odd years.
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Requirements: Applicants must include a letter of recommendation from the lead teacher of the respective fine arts program. This scholarship is sponsored by the Cosmopolitan Club of Petal.
“One of the Good Ones” – The Wes Foster Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Applicants must have 2.5 GPA. They must provide an essay stating “Why you think you are worthy of this scholarship,” and expound on their personal code of ethics. They must also provide a letter of recommendation from a teacher attesting to the applicant’s kindness, compassion and friendly attitude toward others.
Peggy James Child Nutrition Employee Dependent Scholarships
Penny Jones Alexander Stay in School Scholarship
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Amount: $1000.00
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No PEF application. Recipient will be Nominated.
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Requirements: Recipient will be awarded this scholarship for extra effort exerted to stay in school and graduate, despite exceptional circumstances. This includes circumstances such as pregnancy and obstacles other students do not face. Graduation is the only requirement. A student could receive this award with academic awards also. Nominations may be made by any school employee, certified or otherwise, to the high school principal.
Petal Arts Council Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a visual arts student who exhibits talent with their chosen medium, i.e., paint materials, clay, sculpture materials, photography, etc. Medium does not include computer generated work. Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA. They must submit three representations of their original work created within the last three years, prior to high school graduation. Must also submit a letter of recommendation focusing on the student’s artistic aptitude.
Petal High School Junior ROTC Scholarship
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Award: $1000.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a senior who displays high moral character. They must meet the following requirements:
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2.5 GPA
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Intend to enroll in Army ROTC with intentions of graduating with a commission in the Army or USMC.
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Other branches of the military will be considered should there not be an applicant for the Army or USMC.
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Applicant should display the following traits:
- Enjoy a military lifestyle.
- Be comfortable in a military atmosphere.
- Be self-motivated.
- Show and possess leadership skills and traits.
- Maintain a neat personal appearance.
Candidates must be recommended by both JROTC instructors and interviewed by donor or local retired military. They must provide an essay stating, “Why would you like to receive the ROTC Scholarship?” Also provide a letter of reference.
**Should the recipient drop out of the college ROTC program their first semester, they are expected to return the $1000.00 scholarship to the Petal Education Foundation.
Petal Band Presidential Inaugural Scholarship
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Award: $1000.00
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Priority will be given to the most outstanding senior band member majoring in music.
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a member of the PHS band who intends to major in Music during college. Applicants must provide a 250- word essay stating, “Why you think you are worthy of this scholarship,” and one letter of reference. They must have a 2.5 GPA and exhibit leadership skills.
Should there be no applicant who is majoring in Music, the scholarship will be awarded to an outstanding senior PHS band member who has been in the band for the last four years. A letter of recommendation from a PHS band director must be submitted. They must have served in a leadership position, as well as exhibited leadership skills. Include a resume documenting leadership.
Petal Area Chamber of Commerce (PACC) Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Applicant must be one of the following:
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Employed by a business that is a member in good standing of the PACC.
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The legal child of a business owner that is a member in good standing of the PACC.
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The legal child of a parent employed at a business that is a member in good standing of the PACC.
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Scholarships can be utilized for full or part-time tuition to any college undergraduate or graduate program, for technical college or for community college in Mississippi. Applicants will be selected based on:
- Participation and leadership in school activities and work experience
- Academic achievement
- Economic need
Applicants must write a short paragraph stating their economic need. They must provide a resume, including documentation of community service done throughout high school, including dates and times of service. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or above.
Petal Family YMCA IMPACT Scholarship
- Award: $250.00
- Complete PEF Application.
- Requirements: The recipient of this scholarship must be a Petal High School senior with a 2.5 GPA or higher who plans to pursue a degree at a university, community college, or trade school.
- Applicants must submit a one-page essay on the topic: The Impact of the YMCA on My Life. The essay should describe how participation in YMCA programs has influenced them, the lessons they have learned, and how the YMCA’s five core values play a role in their everyday life.
- Additionally, applicants must provide one letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or administrator of the Petal School District. Consideration will also be given to students with involvement in volunteerism or extracurricular activities.
Petal Optimist Club Scholarship
Petal School District Most Outstanding Ambassador
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a Petal School District Senior Ambassador. They must have exhibited leadership skills and participated in functions with the Foundation, Chamber of Commerce and in other community service projects. They must submit a resume listing leadership positions and a list of documented community service activities, including dates and hours of service.
Petal Youth Sports Association Scholarship
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Award: $250.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipients must have a 2.5 GPA and be attending an accredited Mississippi college, junior college or university. Recipient must have participated in organized sports during their high school career. Applicants must write a brief essay entitled, “The Importance of Interscholastic Sports and the Lessons I Have Learned.”
Power of the Pen Scholarship
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Award: $300.00
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Complete PEF application.
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The pen has the power to alter the status quo. Authors and poets have been voicing their opinions through original fiction and poetry for centuries and by commentating through characters and/or verse, they have continually incited change.
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Requirements: Applicants must submit an original work of poetry or short fiction that in some way addresses an issue relevant to society today. There are no stylistic guidelines; students may choose the format that best suits their message. Submissions should be 1,500 words or less.
Randy Spears Community Pharmacy Scholarship
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Award: $250.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipients must demonstrate leadership qualities and high academic achievement. They must have an interest in community pharmacy, extracurricular activities and volunteering. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA and have taken higher math and sciences. They must submit at least one letter of recommendation from PHS math or science teachers. They must also submit a personal narrative including background, interests and an explanation of their interest in independent pharmacy as a career goal.
Ray Perkins Athletic Scholarship
Resinall Science/Engineering Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: This scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student planning to pursue a degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science or Engineering. They must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and be attending a state funded college or university within the State of Mississippi. Must provide a letter of recommendation from a math or science teacher and an essay entitled, “Why I Am Choosing a Degree in Chemistry, Polymer or Engineering.”
R. L. & Nancy Hullum Choral Music Scholarship
- Award: $500.00
- Complete PEF application.
- Requirements: Recipient must have participated in the choral arts program, at PHS. They must have a proven record as a hard worker, a positive attitude, a displayed love for music and effort to improve their skills. Applicants must have maintained a 2.5 GPA and provide a letter of recommendation from the PHS choir director. Applicant should include an essay stating, “What participating in the choral program at Petal High School has meant to me.”
R. L. & Nancy Hullum Visual Arts Scholarship
- Award: $500.00
- Complete PEF application.
- Requirements: Recipient must have participated in the visual arts program at Petal High School and have a proven record as a hard worker. They must strive to improve their skills in art. Applicants must have maintained a 2.5 GPA. Must provide a letter of recommendation from the high school art teacher and an essay stating, “What participating in the visual arts program at Petal High School has meant to me.”
Robert and Dee Lowery Skills Trade Scholarship
- Award: $500.00
- Complete PEF application.
- Requirements: Recipient must be a graduating senior who plans to enroll in a one-year certificate program to obtain skills and credentials to join the workforce in a short period of time. Applicants must have maintained a 2.0 GPA. Must provide a letter of recommendation from a PHS teacher and submit a paragraph stating their intended future vocation.
Robert E. Hendrix Scholarship
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Award: $6,000.00 ($1,500.00 per year for four years)
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Applicants must have significant financial need. They must have had a Petal High School mentor throughout grades 9-12 and must provide a mentor recommendation attesting to students' financial need and character. Applicants must submit an essay stating, “My Future Education and Career Goals.”
Robert E. Russell, Sr. Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be a Petal High School senior who has been enrolled in the Petal School District throughout grades 7-12. Applicants must provide a resume listing activities both in school and in the community. The recipient must have maintained a 2.5 GPA. They must submit a letter of recommendation attesting to the student’s leadership and community service.
Robert Taylor Sr. Memorial Golf Scholarship
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Award: $250
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Requirements: Recipient must be a PHS Senior on the PHS Golf Team that has demonstrated leadership skills both on and off the golf course. They must have displayed a respect for the rules and traditions of the game. Applicants must have maintained a 2.5 GPA and provide a letter of recommendation from the PHS golf coach or a local PGA professional. Must also submit an essay stating, “How the Game of Golf has had a Positive Impact on my Life.”
Ronnie Harrington Memorial Baseball Scholarship
R & R Building & Construction Technology Scholarship
Shannon Rehm Legacy Scholarship
- Award: $500.00
- Must Complete PEF Application
- Requirements: The recipient of this scholarship must be a Petal High School senior cheerleader with a 3.5 GPA or higher. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay on the topic: How Cheerleading Has Prepared Me for the Future. The essay should explain how cheerleading has taught the applicant valuable lessons, such as time management, balancing responsibilities, and staying focused under pressure, and how these skills will help in their future career and academic pursuits.
- Additionally, applicants must provide two letters of recommendation from teachers supporting their excellence in academics and/or extracurricular activities.
SPC William Anthony Blount Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Applicants must be of strong moral character and provide documentation of participating in public service. This includes activities and roles that benefit the public and contribute to the wellbeing of the community. It often involves areas like public safety, education, healthcare, social services and other forms of community service. The applicant must also prove financial need and submit 2 letters of reference attesting to the students strong moral character.
Spirit of Robert Burgess Athletic Scholarship
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Award: $250.00
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Requirements: Recipient must be nominated by a member of the PHS coaching staff. They must have maintained a 2.0 GPA, played or been involved in a PHS sport and posses a strong spirit of volunteerism. Two letters of recommendation attesting to the student’s sport involvement and volunteerism must be submitted.
William L. Wheat, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $500.00
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Must Complete PEF Application
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Requirements: The recipient of this scholarship must be a student-athlete, who demonstrates good sportsmanship and teamwork, and plans to pursue a degree in accounting or business at a two-year college or four-year university. The student must hold a 3.0 GPA or above. Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation from a teacher or coach at the Petal School District who has taught or coached the student.
Willie Ratliff Memorial Scholarship
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Award: $250.00
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Complete PEF application.
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Requirements: Recipient must be of high moral character and be kind to everyone they meet, especially to those less fortunate. They must have financial need and provide a 250- word essay stating education and career goals. Applicants must submit a teacher recommendation.
Valerie Wilson Scholarship
2025 “Courage to Give” Scholarship Sponsored by Vitalant
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Award: $625 to $2000 per scholarship [Amount determined by blood drive donations]
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No PEF application is necessary.
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Requirements: The recipient must be a Petal High School senior who donates blood and/or blood products at least twice during the 2025-26 PHS blood drives.
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Once the donation criteria are met, Petal High School teachers and administrators will vote on seniors who demonstrate integrity, a genuine concern for others, and the courage to overcome fear.
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Two equal scholarships will be awarded.
Other Scholarships (no application)
No application needed. Awards are based solely on test scores, course average or teacher recommendation.
- Dalton Lee Brumbaugh Utility Lineman Scholarship
- CTE: Business, Marketing and Finance Scholarship
- CTE: Construction Technology
- CTE: Culinary Arts
- CTE: Digital Media Technology
- CTE: Educator Preparation/Teacher Academy
- CTE: Health Science Scholarship: Teresa Brown Academic Excellence Scholarship
- CTE: Information Technology
- CTE: Law and Public Safety
- CTE: Polymer Science
- CTE: Sports Medicine
- Karla Hogan Health Care Hero Scholarship
Dalton Lee Brumbaugh Utility Lineman Scholarship
- In honor of Dalton Brumbaugh, a member of the first Utility Lineman class and 2019 PHS graduate.
- Award: Climbing Gear
- Requirements: Will be given to a senior graduating from the PHS Utility Lineman program. The student must be accepted into a post-secondary lineman program or have a job offer in the field. The recipient is nominated by a committee, which includes the lineman instructor.
CTE: Business, Marketing and Finance Scholarship
CTE: Construction Technology
CTE: Culinary Arts
CTE: Digital Media Technology
CTE: Educator Preparation/Teacher Academy
CTE: Health Science Scholarship: Teresa Brown Academic Excellence Scholarship
CTE: Information Technology
CTE: Law and Public Safety
CTE: Polymer Science
CTE: Sports Medicine
Karla Hogan Health Care Hero Scholarship
Mini Grants
PEF encourages innovative programs in the classroom by offering mini-grants for teachers.
A special thank you to the Forrest County Board of Supervisors for their generous $25,000 donation for teacher mini-grants.
- Leap Into Learning: A Tadpole’s Transformation Journey
- Magnetic Fine Motor Skills
- Light Up Learning
- Grow Together, Bloom Forever
- Growing Minds, One Seat at a Time
- We Teach Kids to Talk Back
- They See Me Rolling!
- Come On Ring Those Bells
- Crashing Out? Cool Down
- Mission: Drone Possible
- Puppet Pals: A Storytelling Collaboration
- Creative Dimensions: 3-D Printing and Design Beyond the Screen in Digital Space
- Forensic Fowl Body Farm-Year Two
- Taste Works Café
- Career Creation Stations, Year Two
- Cook. Clean. Thrive!
- Iron Men
Leap Into Learning: A Tadpole’s Transformation Journey
- Erika Basilla
- Leap Into Learning: A Tadpole’s Transformation Journey is an interactive, inquiry-based grant designed to bring the life cycle of amphibians to our second graders through highly engaging, real-time learning. This project will enable our students to observe and care for live tadpoles as they undergo metamorphosis into frogs, providing our learners with a front-row seat to the wonders of biological transformation.
Magnetic Fine Motor Skills
- Mary Culpepper
- This grant will fund a double-sided magnet board along with a variety of engaging materials, including magnets, gears, shapes, and tangrams. Designed to serve all students at Petal Primary, this fine motor lab will add a dynamic, hands-on dimension to early childhood development. Through creative play, students will strengthen essential hand muscles and coordination-foundational skills that support success in academic tasks such as writing, cutting, and manipulating classroom tools.
Light Up Learning
- Breanna Moody
- Light Up Learning grant will fund a color-changing light table, sensory trays, and engaging manipulatives to create a hands-on, visually stimulating learning environment. These materials will provide students with sensory-rich experiences that support the development of math concepts, letter and word formation, and handwriting skills-creative tools many would not have access to outside the classroom.
Grow Together, Bloom Forever
- Koby Harris
- The “Grow Together, Bloom Forever” grant will support the creation of an innovative outdoor space for second-grade students at Petal Primary. With raised garden beds, soil, seeds, plants, and gardening tools-alongside benches and weather-resistant storage, this integrated outdoor space will empower students to take part in cultivating a community garden that fosters responsibility, collaboration, and a love for learning outdoors.
Growing Minds, One Seat at a Time
- Koby Harris
- Flexible seating refers to a classroom setup that addresses the need for a more dynamic and inclusive learning environment within the classroom. This initiative will provide a variety of seating options, such as bean bags, floor cushions, standing desks, and wobble stools, that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of students. By allowing students to sit in different configurations throughout the day, flexible seating promotes collaboration, boosts engagement, and supports focus through personalized learning experiences.
We Teach Kids to Talk Back
- Rachel Davis, Sharon Hillman and Kelli Banta
- These grant funds will purchase two iPads and a TouchChat Augmentative and Alternative Communication device that will facilitate and model communication in our multi-disabled, self-contained classrooms. These devices will enhance communication by increasing proficiency with ACC technology and empowering students to express themselves more effectively in the classroom setting.
They See Me Rolling!
- Jenalee Coleman
- This initiative will use grant funds to purchase a Gaggle Parade 4 Buggy Stroller to safely and efficiently transport PreK-Kindergarten students receiving speech services at Petal Primary. The stroller will ease transitions, reduce student frustrations and outbursts, and create new opportunities for communication and engagement along the way.
Come On Ring Those Bells
- Tracy Bowman
- This grant will fund 25 tone bell sets, allowing approximately 350 fourth Grade students to explore the connection between science and music by investigating how vibration affects pitch. Through hands-on learning, students will develop an understanding of sound, rhythm, and musical notes-and will showcase their skills through performances at the Christmas program, local nursing homes, family nights, and virtual events.
Crashing Out? Cool Down
- Marika Hall
- The Crashing Out? Cool Down grant will create a calming "cool down corner" designed to help students practice their “core competencies” of self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making skills. Funds will provide soothing visual and auditory tools like lamps, soft seating, calming music, and headphones for breathing exercises-along with resources such as emotion posters, worksheets, writing prompts, and coloring sheets to support emotional regulation and reflection.
Mission: Drone Possible
- Christy Sheffield
- This grant will fund 10 Drone Maker Kits to launch students into an immersive, aviation-style drone flight school experience. Guided by a licensed UAV pilot, students will learn to fly, log flight time and engineer drones to solve simulated real-world challenges-like delivering medical supplies to remote areas. By integrating drone technology, this program equips students with practical STEM skills, ethical awareness, and a forward-thinking view of how innovation shapes our world.
Puppet Pals: A Storytelling Collaboration
- Erin Bilbo [PMS] and Sarah Woods [PPS]
- This grant will bring together second and eighth-grade students in a creative, cross-campus collaboration blending storytelling and textile arts. Second graders will write original folktales and illustrate their characters, while eighth graders-using materials funded by this grant-will design and sew the fabric puppets based on those illustrations. In the third nine weeks, the eighth-grade students will present the handmade puppets to their second-grade partners, bringing their stories to life in a meaningful and memorable way.
Creative Dimensions: 3-D Printing and Design Beyond the Screen in Digital Space
- Tracy Moseley
- Grant funds will be used to purchase three new Flashforge Adventurer 3-D printers to enhance the seventh Grade Cyber Foundations I curriculum at Petal Middle School. Students will blend graphic design, web development, and multimedia content with hands-on 3-D printing that will empower students to transform digital creations into tangible models while deepening their understanding of design principles and digital media.
Forensic Fowl Body Farm-Year Two
- Sara Zimmer
- This grant will support Petal High School Forensics II students as they continue original research on death and decay using fresh chicken specimens. Grant funds will replenish consumables such as full-body PPE, duffle bags, insect ID cards, a field camera subscription, and a charging station cart. Students will conduct hands-on experiments by manipulating environmental variables like temperature, wind, and water exposure to study decomposition firsthand, gaining real-world forensic knowledge used by crime scene investigators across the globe.
Taste Works Café
- Jennifer Dixon
- This grant will fund the purchase of small appliances, cooking and prep tools, initial food inventory, and other materials needed to begin operating a student-run café at Petal High School. Designed to provide a rich, project-based learning experience, the cafe will help foster both entrepreneurial and workplace skills among our culinary arts students. In addition to classroom instruction, students will gain hands-on experience in a real-world, customer-facing setting where timing, service, and teamwork are essential to success.
Career Creation Stations, Year Two
- Emily Black
- This project will continue to equip students in special education programs with hands-on opportunities to explore, create, and develop real-world skills. With a focus on helping students discover their individual strengths and talents, grant funding will provide woodworking kits, STEM activities, tools, plumbing supplies, and refill materials for job-related projects. These stations are designed to foster creativity, build confidence, and expose students to potential career paths through practical, project-based learning experiences.
Cook. Clean. Thrive!
- Emily Martin
- “Cook. Clean. Thrive!” will provide a new stove and dryer for the community-based classroom at Petal High School. These appliances will allow students with special needs to practice essential life skills, including functional reading, math, and daily living tasks. Through hands-on learning, students will work toward meeting the Mississippi Alternate Academic Achievement Standards while gaining the confidence and proficiency needed to perform these tasks independently in the future.
Iron Men
- Mandy Lyon and Crystal Giles
- Iron Men is a mentor-driven program designed for 24 at-risk male students at Petal High School, offering a fresh, differentiated approach to behavior intervention. Through small group mentorship, life skill projects, monthly book studies, leadership meetings, and quarterly community events, students will build critical life and social skills in a supportive environment. Grant funds will be used to purchase books, instructional videos, life skills curriculum, and materials for hands-on learning, such as chess sets, automotive and building supplies, and fishing gear. The ultimate goal is to foster personal growth, develop coping strategies, and guide these young men toward becoming confident, positive contributors to their school and community.
Early Childhood Education
Petal Excel By 5
Excel By 5 is a community-based certification designed to improve a child’s overall well-being by age five. This program emphasizes the important roles communities play in educating their children during their most formative years: from birth to age five. In 2007, Petal became Mississippi’s first certified Excel By 5 community. Donations to support Petal Excel By 5 can be made through the PEF.
For more information visit www.PetalExcelBy5.com.
Dolly Parton Imagination Library
The Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which began in Petal in May 2009, allows enrolled children to receive one book each month from the child’s first month after birth until their fifth birthday. The books are sent to the home address at no cost.
The program is funded by the generosity of interested citizens, donations from civic clubs and cooperation grants. By donating just $29, a child would receive free books for one year.
Every tax-deductible donation is appreciated. Make checks payable to the Petal Education Foundation at any time to help support the Imagination Library. Note: only families that live in Petal are eligible.
Click here for a Dolly Parton Imagination Library Brochure
Click here for a Dolly Parton Imagination Library Donation Form
Car Tags
Show your Petal Panther Support!
Purchase a Petal School District tag and help support the PEF and enhance the quality of education in our schools! Tags can be purchased at the Forrest County Tax Collector's office, at any time and during any month.

Champion of the Year
The Champion of the Year Award is presented at Homecoming each year. Nominations by letter of recommendation may be mailed to the PEF office at P.O. Box 948, Petal, MS 39465.
Award Criteria:
- May be presented to an individual, organization or business
- Cannot be given to an employee of the district
- A retiree may receive the award after five years of retirement.
- Given to an individual who has provided significant contributions to the district and the community
- Contribution does not have to be financial

Board of Directors

Christy Hinnant
Executive Director

Kelly Lambert
President

Bruce Magee
Vice President

Kristen Israel
Secretary

Dee Dee Lowery
Treasurer

Pacely Alford
Member

Laurie Barker
Member

Jonathan Boone
Member

Logan Brenner
Member

Charlene Cannon
Member

Bill Dukes
Member

Shannon Newsome
Member

David Ruffin
Member

Julie Russell
Member

Jonathan Smith
Member

Jessica Sutton
Member












