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Middle School Founders Scholarship

A middle school student records his thoughts down during mock trial class.

The Founders Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for new middle school applicants who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, strong character and the potential to make a meaningful, positive impact on the Old Trail School community.

This merit-based scholarship is designed to recognize and support students who embody the values of curiosity, leadership and a commitment to excellence. Recipients are selected based on their academic record, personal character and the unique contributions they can bring to our vibrant learning environment.

Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $15,000 per year and are renewable annually through middle school, as long as recipients continue to meet the high standards of the scholarship.

The Founders Scholarship reflects Old Trail’s commitment to investing in bright, motivated students and fostering a diverse and dynamic learning community where young learners can thrive, grow and reach their fullest potential.

Eligibility Criteria

Students who qualify for the Middle School Founders Scholarship demonstrate:

  • High academic achievement
  • Strong performance on standardized tests
  • Exceptional character and integrity
  • Outstanding citizenship and leadership qualities
  • Active involvement in meaningful extracurricular activities

The number and amount of awards vary each year, depending on the applicant pool, available space in a given grade and school resources. Recipients of the Founders Scholarship are also welcome to apply for need-based Flexible Tuition, as the scholarship is awarded independently of the need-based tuition assistance process.

A pair of middle school students record observations on the wild flower loop on campus.

 

Application Process

Applying for the Founders Scholarship is a straightforward process designed to help us get to know each applicant as a student, individual and community member. Each step ensures we gain a well-rounded understanding of the applicant’s academic abilities, character and potential contributions to Old Trail School.

  1. Submit an inquiry to the school
  2. Complete the admission application
  3. Complete an admission assessment focused on Math, Reading, Writing and Vocabulary
  4. Participate in an on-campus interview and student visit
  5. Provide complete school transcripts
  6. Provide two teacher evaluation forms

This thorough and thoughtful process allows us to identify students who will thrive at Old Trail and make a lasting impact on our community.

BEGIN THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Before coming to Old Trail, I wasn't really into school that much. My parents enrolled me at OTS in seventh grade because they wanted me to fall in love with learning. I'm so glad they did. Old Trail is a special place to me, mainly because it helped me foster my love for learning new things.

Ella Hassler '20, Bates College, Environmental Studies