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
103 East Central Avenue
Petal, MS 39465
P: 601.545.3002
Follow us on Facebook!
- 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:
-
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
- Blakeslee Archery 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. Matt Dillon Leadership Scholarship
- Earl Porter Cross Scholarship
- Edith Easterling James Education Scholarship
- Elizabeth Dabbs Brock “Fight the Good Fight” 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 RaeShort "We Were Made To Thrive" Scholarship
- Making Strides 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 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
- 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
- 2024 “Courage to Give” Scholarship Sponsored by Vitalant
Addison McKinley Memorial Scholarship
-
Award: $1000.00
-
Complete PEF Application
-
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 the 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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF Application
-
Requirements: Recipient must have GPA 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.
Two scholarships will be awarded.
Allen Flynt "Big Al" Memorial Scholarship
Anderson Brothers Leadership Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF Application
-
Requirements: The recipient must be a Petal High senior who has participated in school and community service activities, while demonstrating leadership skills, roles and abilities. Student must have maintained a 2.5 GPA, obtained a letter of recommendation and provide a resume.
Beth Havard English/Education Memorial Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Must Complete PEF Application
-
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.
Blakeslee Archery Scholarship
Blossman Gas Community Scholarship
Bob & Kristi Pierce Senior Class President Scholarship
Bobby Drake Athletic Scholarship
Bruce Magee Education Scholarship
- Amount: $1000.00
- Complete the PEF application.
- If no student meets the scholarship requirements, teachers may apply.
- 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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $250.00
-
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
-
Award Amount: $1000.00
-
Complete the PEF application
-
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:
-
A person's potential to learn is limitless.
-
All people have intrinsic worth.
-
People are influenced more by what others do than by what they say.
-
Debbie Nobles Teacher Education Scholarship
Dee Dee & Robert Lowery Accounting/Business Scholarship
-
Award: $1000.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must be majoring in Accounting with a four or five year degree. 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.
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF Application
-
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 PHS Chemistry, Biology or Human A&P teacher. They must also have a current or former PHS science teacher who can attest to the student’s aptitude for medicine. Applicants must 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
Dr. James Hutto Education Scholarship
Dr. Matt Dillon Leadership Scholarship
Earl Porter Cross Scholarship
-
Award: $300.00
-
Complete PEF application
-
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 Dabbs Brock “Fight the Good Fight” Memorial Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF Application.
-
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 recommendations 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.
Everyone Can Help Someone Scholarship-First Responder (Medical & Law Enforcement)
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF Application.
-
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
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Varies from year to year based on contributions to the “Friends of the Foundation” Annual Campaign Scholarship Fund
-
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $1000.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must have a 2.5 GPA. 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 the aforementioned item 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
- Award: $500
- Must complete the PEF Application.
- Requirements: Recipient must be a Petal High School Graduate pursuing a degree in the medical field. Applicants must have a 3.0 or higher GPA and provide a 100 to 300 word essay on a time when someone has or you have been impacted by someone being kind.
Kevin Patrick Duckworth Memorial Baseball Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must be majoring in accounting with a four or five year degree. 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
-
Award: $1000.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must be one of the following:
-
Student planning to attend an accredited Architectural School and majoring in architecture; or
-
Students majoring in Architectural Engineering; or
-
Students majoring in Construction Engineering; or
-
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
Lynn Cartlidge Leadership Scholarship
Madeline RaeShort "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.
Making Strides Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must have worked to overcome a disability or experienced hardship with an immediate family member stricken with a debilitating illness or disease. Applicants must write an essay describing the medical situation. They must have a 2.5 GPA, provide a letter of recommendation, and a resume listing school and community involvement.
Marcus Ware Engineering Scholarship
Milton Carpenter Scholarship
Mississippi Scholars Program PEF Scholarship
Mississippi Scholars Tech Masters PEF Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient should meet all the requirements of the Mississippi Scholars Tech Masters Program and complete PHS Career Technical Tech Masters application, http://goo.gl/forms/sJbvVVmwrM
Odis B. Clinton Music Scholarship
-
Award: $400.00
-
Complete PEF application
-
Given to a PHS band member in even years and a PHS choral student in odd years.
-
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Applicants must have a 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
-
Amount: $1000.00
-
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $1000.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must be a senior who displays high moral character. They must meet the following requirements:
-
2.5 GPA
-
Intend to enroll in Army ROTC with intentions of graduating with a commission in the Army or USMC.
-
Other branches of the military will be considered should there not be an applicant for the Army or USMC.
-
-
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
-
Award: $1000.00
-
Priority will be given to the most outstanding senior band member majoring in music.
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Applicant must be one of the following:
-
Employed by a business that is a member in good standing of the PACC.
-
The legal child of a business owner that is a member in good standing of the PACC.
-
The legal child of a parent employed at a business that is a member in good standing of the PACC.
-
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 Optimist Club Scholarship
Petal School District Most Outstanding Ambassador
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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 community service activities, including dates and hours of service.
Petal Youth Sports Association Scholarship
-
Award: $250.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $300.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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.
-
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
-
Award: 250.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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: To offer an opportunity to students choosing an alternate preparation for a vocation, the Lowery family is providing this scholarship for a graduating student who plans to enroll in a one-year certificate program to gain skills and credentials to join the workforce in a short period of time. The recipient must have maintained a 2.0 GPA, provide a letter of recommendation from a PHS teacher and submit a paragraph stating their intended vocation and plans.
Robert E. Hendrix Scholarship
-
Award: $6,000.00 ($1,500.00 per year for four years)
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Applicants must submit a paragraph stating student need and write an essay stating, “My Future Education and Career Goals.” They must have a PHS Mentor recommendation. Mentorship must have begun in ninth grade and have continued throughout high school.
Robert E. Russell, Sr. Scholarship
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient will be a Petal High School senior who has been enrolled in the Petal School District from grades 7-12. Applicants must provide a resume listing activities in and out of school demonstrating engagement in organizations and school clubs. They must maintain a 2.5 GPA. A letter of recommendation attesting to the student’s leadership and community service must be included.
Robert Taylor Sr. Memorial Golf Scholarship
-
Award: $250
-
Complete PEF application.
-
Requirements: Recipient must be a PHS Senior on the Golf Team who 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 and maintained a 2.5 GPA or better. They must provide an essay entitled, “How the Game of Golf has had a Positive Impact on my Life,” and provide a letter of recommendation from the golf coach or local PGA professional.
Ronnie Harrington Memorial Baseball Scholarship
SPC William Anthony Blount Memorial Scholarship
Spirit of Robert Burgess Athletic Scholarship
-
Award: $250.00
-
Requirements: Recipient must be nominated by a member of the PHS coaching staff. They must have a 2.0 GPA, played or been involved in a PHS sport and possess 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
-
Award: $500.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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
-
Award: $250.00
-
Complete PEF application.
-
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. A teacher recommendation should be submitted.
Valerie Wilson Scholarship
2024 “Courage to Give” Scholarship Sponsored by Vitalant
-
Award: $500.00
-
Requirements: The recipient must be a Petal High School senior who donates blood and/or blood products at least twice during the 2024-25 PHS blood drives. If a senior is unable to donate, they may have a sponsor donate on their behalf. No PEF application is necessary. Once the donation criteria are met, Petal High School teachers and administrators will nominate seniors who demonstrate integrity, a genuine concern for others, and the courage to overcome fear or uncertainty in pursuit of personal goals. The top 10 nominees will be notified and must submit the following:
-
A teacher recommendation letter highlighting these personal qualities.
-
A one-page written response to the prompt: What does the phrase “Courage to Give” mean to me?
-
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
- R & R Building & Construction Technology 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.
R & R Building & Construction Technology 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
Download our Scholarship Guide
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.
- “Eggs”ited About Incubators!”
- Recess Meets Skills
- Step into Stem
- PAWS for Applause
- Pedaling Panthers: A Balance Bike Fitness Adventure in Primary PE
- Talk Pic-y to Me
- The Walking Classroom: Walk. Listen. Learn.
- Three Cheers for EARS
- Its All In The Bag
- Math and Science Discovery Depot
- Breaking News, PES Is On The Move
- Empowering Minds: Igniting Curiosity Through Hands-On Science
- Using 3D Art to Create a Collaborative Natural Selection Installation
- Strike A Pose: Developing and Using Models to Illustrate Scientific Principles
- Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators: Funding a Cutting-Edge STEM Journey for Middle Schoolers
- Moving with Molecules
- Speech Team Scripts And A Theater Tour
- Digitizing the Art Studio Phase Two
- The Foul Fowl Body Farm at Petal High
- TechTinkers: Coding the Future with Raspberry Pi
- Career Creation Stations
- Anti-Book Book Club
“Eggs”ited About Incubators!”
- Jennifer Cage
- With the purchase of an incubator and supplies, this initiative is designed to introduce PreK-second grade students to the wonders of life science through the unique opportunity to observe the hatching process of chicks, fostering curiosity, responsibility, and a deeper understanding of biological concepts. Students will engage in observation, prediction and discussion activities, encouraging critical thinking and scientific inquiry.
Recess Meets Skills
- Hannah Grace Smith and Kelli Smith
- This mini-grant will serve approximately 40 students with exceptional needs in PreK SPED, Multi-Disabled and Self-Contained classes at Petal Primary School. This project will introduce two sensory playground equipment pieces; an airplane rocker and a Jumparoo, designed to help students with sensory regulation, social skills development and improved mobility. By incorporating sensory equipment into the recess schedule, students’ sensory needs can be addressed during an already scheduled time, enhancing their focus on academic and IEP tasks within the classroom.
Step into Stem
- Jennifer Burkhalter
- Step Into Stem provides an evening event of interactive STEM activities for PreK-second grade students and their families at Petal Primary School. The event will serve a minimum of 900 students in the Petal community. Grant funds will be used to expand and enhance the event, allowing for more rigorous and diverse experiments and experiences. Through partnerships with local businesses, the event will showcase various STEM fields and foster family engagement in education.
PAWS for Applause
- Tiffany McClure
- PAWS (Positive Active While in School) for Applause project is a program that encourages and rewards students who independently demonstrate behavior through their actions. The initiative focuses on promoting positive student behavior through immediate reinforcement rewards including motivational items such as bracelets, coloring books, pencils, stress balls, stickers, etc. The goal is to teach, promote and encourage students to consistently demonstrate positive behavior and actions in all settings and develop positive behavioral practices.
Pedaling Panthers: A Balance Bike Fitness Adventure in Primary PE
- Lauren Lanford
- With the purchase of six ea. Strider 12 Sport Balance Bikes and six ea. Helmets, these pedal-less bikes will be implemented into the Primary School's PE curriculum to teach children the fundamentals of biking, including balance, coordination and spatial awareness. Biking is a dynamic way to enhance students’ physical literacy and foster a lifelong of physical activity. The addition of the balance bikes will provide additional variation in lessons for our cardiovascular fitness-focused class and teach students skills they might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn.
Talk Pic-y to Me
- Petal Primary PreK SPED
- With the purchase of five individual Boardmakers, along with Web Based Training, our Primary teachers will be able to make individual communication boards for students that are non-verbal or have limited verbal ability. Through picture communications, students will be able to better communicate their wants/needs and feelings, as well as better engagement in academic work.
The Walking Classroom: Walk. Listen. Learn.
- Sherrill Adamo
- The Walking Classroom is a combination of literacy/fitness activities that engages different learning styles, builds listening stamina, and exposes students to a broad range of content while improving student health. Grant funds will purchase kid-friendly podcasts for 25 devices and MP3 players and earbuds that students can check out and listen to on a 20-minute outside walk. Each podcast begins with a brief health literacy message and includes a character value woven throughout. This opportunity will provide teachers with an innovative tool to meet the needs of their students, especially students with alternative learning styles such as ADHD, dyslexia and/or autism.
Three Cheers for EARS
- Fourth Grade PES Science Team
- Fourth grade science lessons rely heavily on up-to-date audio and video content, as well as assistive technology for comprehension. This grant will purchase 175 sets of adjustable, cushioned headphones for seven general education classes, SPED and inclusion classes at Petal Elementary School. With increasing length of use, these earphones will be more suitable for comfort, safer for volume levels and better for noise isolation.
Its All In The Bag
- Amy Farris
- In an effort to help with conceptional understanding of mathematics, sets of 15 different quality literature will be purchased on subjects in mathematics. Vocabulary development across content areas enforces and strengthens the interrelated nature of the literacy process and further engages students in language arts across all disciplines. This project will allow students to take home a durable bag containing a piece of math literature to read and enjoy with their families. Students will use technology to complete interactive activities using the vocabulary from these books and also create commercials to demonstrate the summary of the books for their classmates.
Math and Science Discovery Depot
- Cecilia Lee
- Discovery learning emphasizes students taking an active role in their learning and discovering knowledge through their curiosity. This grant will provide hands-on manipulatives, learning activities, and math and science informational and fictional text for students to explore real-life concepts. By equipping students with this combination of materials, students experience more student-led learning, find inspiration and interests, and make more personal connections with what they are learning.
Breaking News, PES Is On The Move
- Courtney Hodge
- Through an application process, a PES student-led news crew will be selected to create and produce a monthly broadcast of school and district announcements, special reports, interviews and student acknowledgments. Funds will be used to purchase a news desk, green screen, lights, microphone and other related broadcast needs. The goal of this project is to give students insight and skills to develop their communication skills, research and reporting, teamwork and collaboration, and leadership.
Empowering Minds: Igniting Curiosity Through Hands-On Science
- Christy Sheffield and Kimberly McGuffie
- Through the purchase of specific materials, over 310 Petal Middle School Students will be able to administer hands-on investigations of exploration of the cycling of matter and energy within the Earth’s systems. Engaging in scientific and engineering practices, students will be able to question, develop models, analyze data, carry out investigations and justify explanations, enhancing their scientific reasoning. They will be able to apply theory to real-world applications to the following areas: elements, energy transmission, properties of water, density disparities, plant physiology, photosynthesis, fossilization and the sustainability of ecosystems.
Using 3D Art to Create a Collaborative Natural Selection Installation
- Erin Bilbo
- The goal of this project is for students to learn how to use 3D art mediums to create a visual representation of an eighth grade science standard through the use of plaster, clay, paper mâché, cardboard and tape. With these mediums, students will create a 3D visual representation of each species' differentiation with the desirable traits for each habitat. This month-long unit will be tailored to unique 3D art forms but also cultivate the planning, executing and collaboration of the students and their peers.
Strike A Pose: Developing and Using Models to Illustrate Scientific Principles
- Jordan Esperance and Shannon Rehm
- This project responds to the demand for enriched academic experiences by seamlessly integrating hands-on and collaborative science and engineering models into curriculum. Students will use models to develop and practice science process skills including classifying, creating, building and application thinking. With the funds from this grant, Petal Middle School teachers plan to use these new tools and resources for exploration and engagement in order to promote engineering practices and understanding of science concepts. The models to be purchased include the following: solar house kit, seismograph model, molecular DNA, stratigraphic fossil collection, doppler football, wind generator and a water wheel generator.
Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators: Funding a Cutting-Edge STEM Journey for Middle Schoolers
- Christy Sheffield
- Grant funds will be used to purchase essential supplies for a brand-new STEM class at the Middle School. Students will see how science, technology, engineering and math combine to solve real problems and explore topics like Engineering Design, Newton’s Laws, 3D CAD modeling, Computer Science Programming, Electronic Circuits and Robotics. Students will also have hands-on learning of the fundamentals of 3D printing, programming, coding, renewable energy courses and various STEM Challenges.
Moving with Molecules
- PUES Fifth Grade STaR Team
- Through hands-on exploration and creative projects provided by this grant, over 320 students at the Petal Upper Elementary will have the opportunity to dive into the fascinating realm of molecular science. Students will learn about the movement of atoms and molecules in solids, liquids, and gasses, and discover how these movements influence the world around them. This funding will provide class sets of molecular kits and necessary materials to conduct molecular science activities that can inspire future scientists and innovators.
Speech Team Scripts And A Theater Tour
- Greg Howard and Skye Morgan
- The Petal High School Speech and Debate Team will be provided with funding to purchase scripts, prose and poetry pieces, and other performance resources to allow them to compete at the highest level in our circuit. Funding will also allow the opportunity for these students to be exposed to the next level of theater for perspective on acting, technical methods, and other elements of the craft at The University of Southern Mississippi. These opportunities will provide our speech and debate students with an opportunity to view college performance, as well as touring costuming and attending other technical workshops.
Digitizing the Art Studio Phase Two
- Kimberly Evans
- Digital art is a growing field and is widely popular medium among ninth through twelfth grade students. In phase two of this project, an iPad with an apple pen, a second digital camera and photo booth will be purchased to give students more opportunities to create digital art. Students will participate in an Art Boot camp where they will learn how to create and organize art within a digital portfolio. Students will also learn how to use poplar drawing apps like Procreate and Ibis Paint and be taught how to manipulate images of their traditional artwork such as altering color, cropping, blurring, double exposure and using the iSkin Repaper Tablet.
The Foul Fowl Body Farm at Petal High
- Sara Zimmer
- Due to the popularity of the Forensic Science I class at the High School; a Forensic Science II has been created and will allow students to take the knowledge gained from Forensic Science I and apply it to their research interests. Mini-grant funding will provide a class set of “Death’s Acre” by Dr. Bill Bass. Students will participate in literature circle discussions of the science experiments conducted on human corpses at The Body Farm Forensics Laboratory in Knoxville, Tennessee. Hazmat suits and other experiment materials will be purchased to first-hand study the stages of death and decay rates of freshly deceased chickens by manipulating variables such as temperature, wind or water exposure. This will allow our high school students the opportunity for project-based learning experiences outside the classroom that will delve into the specific knowledge gained that has helped investigators all over the world to solve crime.
TechTinkers: Coding the Future with Raspberry Pi
- Jeremy Bollinger
- Learning with Pi aims to enhance the AP Computer Science curriculum by integrating physical computing using Raspberry Pis. Students will delve into basic electronics, soldering skills and programming the Raspberry Pis. Funding will purchase Raspberry Pi Starters kits, Raspberry Pi Picos and Soldering kits and irons that will be used to foster a deeper understanding of computational concepts such as circuit construction, soldering and coding projects. The practical application fosters critical thinking and problem solving, preparing them for real-world challenges and enhancing their overall academic engagement in the AP Computer Science Principles curriculum.
Career Creation Stations
- Emily Black
- This project will provide students in special education programs with the resources to be able to practice skills or design, imagine, create and build but help them discover their strengths and talents for their futures. Funding will purchase items such as a 3D printer, Sewing/Embroidery Machine, MasterChef Jr., Pet Grooming Equipment and Tiling Tools that will create career creation stations geared toward potential job-related projects. These Stations will equip these high school students with the tools, technology and supplies to spark their creativity and let them gain knowledge of their interests.
Anti-Book Book Club
- Allison Trusty
- Anti-Book Book Club will consist of several low-risk and high-interest activities that are geared toward building basic reading and critical thinking skills for students that currently show low interest in reading and classroom participation and engagement. By purchasing high-interest literary texts that are easier to read, and nontraditional texts such as poetry and journaling, preexisting negative barriers will diminish and students’ reading confidence will increase. This book club project will also offer a judgement-free environment with familiar peers.
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