By Amanda Schreiber, Press Secretary, Indiana House Republicans—
STATEHOUSE—Local students preparing to become teachers are among this year’s recipients of the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, according to State Reps. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) and Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown).
The scholarship program, established in 2016 through legislation passed by the Indiana General Assembly, awards recipients a renewable scholarship of up to $10,000 per year (up to $40,000 total) to high-achieving high school and college students who agree to teach in an eligible Indiana school for five years. A record-breaking 1,091 students applied for the 2025-2026 Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship, with nearly 300 scholarships awarded.
“It’s always impressive to see local students reach this milestone and earn recognition for their efforts,” Prescott said. “I’m proud of each of them for taking on this responsibility and look forward to seeing how these future teachers contribute to our schools.”
This year, these local students were among the scholarship recipients:
- Makayla Robles, Delta High School
- Vanessa McConnell, Muncie Central High School
- Madelynn Brown, Muncie Central High School
- Lexi Edwards, Muncie Central High School
- Kaelynn Newsome, Muncie Central High School
- Gracie Scholl, Muncie Central High School
- Sophie Gernand, Yorktown High School and
- Aurilia Moulton, Yorktown High School
Rowray said those qualifying for the scholarship must graduate in the top 20 percent of their high school class, earn a score in the 20th percentile on the SAT or ACT, or have a cumulative grade point average of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
“This scholarship is a great way to support students with a passion for education,” Rowray said. “I hope it gives them the confidence to focus on becoming great future teachers and leaders.”
To learn more and apply for the next round of scholarships opening in the fall, visit LearnMoreIndiana.org/nextteacher. Questions may be directed to NextTeacher@che.in.gov.
