On Friday, April 21, members of the Area Social Services in Somerset Texas (ASSIST) presented the Somerset ISD Education Foundation (SISDEF) with a $190,000 check towards student scholarships. Leo Salas, ASSIST President, happily declared the donation is for Somerset ISD’s Career and Technical Educational (CTE) programs.
The district has 14 CTE programs of study. Each program offers students a career pathway with the ability to earn industry-recognized certificates and/or licenses.
“I live in this community and I know what this can do for our children,” said Mr. Salas. “Not every student goes to college and we want this money to help those who feel lost. There are other careers out there that don’t require a four year degree.”
ASSIST is a local nonprofit organization created in 1991 by a group of servant leader community members with the goal to help the Somerset community. Over the years the group has volunteered, raised funds to spruce up parks, and donated money for scholarships.
SISDEF has raised over one million dollars towards grants, student scholarships, academic recognitions, and STEM programs. Susie Pool, Executive Director of SISDEF, said the $190,000 donation is the most generous donation towards scholarships the foundation has seen.
“We can’t thank you enough,” said Ms. Pool to Mr. Salas. “This is going to have big impact on our students.”
Students pursuing careers in CTE programs will be eligible to receive a scholarship through SISDEF beginning this May.