Take Stock selects scholarship candidates

Nine East County students were selected to participate in Take Stock for Children’s mentor and college scholarship program, Manatee County Public Schools officials announced this morning.

Braden River High School students Kevin Brito and Christopher Godzina; Braden River Middle School students Victor Michel and Briana Nelson Canty; and Nolan Middle School students Jacob Soles, Ariana Miraglia, James Tinl, Justina Gomez and Steven Wallace were among the 25 selected for this year’s program.

Take Stock in Children is a mentor and college scholarship program for income-eligible students. Once selected, students and their parent or guardian sign a performance contract committing to good grades and behavior, remaining drug free and crime free and to meet with a mentor for 30 minutes every week during the school year. Upon graduation, as long as the student has maintained their agreement, they receive a four-year college scholarship.

Mentors are needed for the incoming students. A volunteer mentor application is available at takestockmanatee.com. Orientation and training are provided, along with ongoing mentor and student support.