HomeMy WebLinkAbout15-5 Scholarship Program
POLICY
Section Policy No. Page
Grants/Scholarships/Awards/Donation 15-5 1 of 2
Policy Title Date: Motion
No.
Kneehill County Scholarship Program March 10, 2026 66/26
Purpose:
To establish a policy providing a scholarship program for Kneehill County residents enrolled in a post-
secondary institution. The intent of this policy is to emphasize that education is not an end in itself, but
instead is a means by which people become contributing members of society and tomorrow’s leaders.
Policy Statement:
Kneehill County Council, recognizing the importance of an educated population to the future well-being of
rural communities, will commit $4,000.00 per year, for a scholarship program in support of rural students
attending a university, college or trade school. This will be in the form of 2 scholarships of $2,000.
Policy Guidelines/Procedures:
1. Eligibility:
1.1 Applicant must be a rural resident of Kneehill County enrolling in their first year as a full-time
student at a recognized post-secondary institution.
1.2 Applicant must provide confirmation of enrollment and acceptance into their chosen program of
study.
2. Application:
2.1. Applicant must apply for the scholarship in writing prior to June 30 of the year of application.
2.2. A written essay. (no longer than 1000 words) Essay topic will be determined by the CAO for each
program year.
2.3. List of contributions and participation made to school and community; leadership activities and
personal achievements.
2.4. Application must include two letters of reference which validates your contributions and
participation made to school or community. (non-relative).
2.5. Applicant must submit a graduation picture of themselves along with their application to be used
for Kneehill County publications and possible local newspaper publications.
2.6. All applicants must complete and sign the current application form. By signing the declaration, the
applicant confirms that all application materials, including the written essay, are their original work.
The use of artificial intelligence tools (including, but not limited to, AI text generators) to create or
substantially generate the essay is not permitted. Essays must reflect the applicant’s own ideas,
writing, and personal experience. Any misrepresentation may result in disqualification.
POLICY
Section Policy No. Page
Grants/Scholarships/Awards/Donation 15-5 2 of 2
Policy Title Date: Motion No.
Kneehill County Scholarship Program March 10, 2026 66/26
3. Criteria:
Successful candidates will be selected based upon the following criteria:
• 50% - Written essay
• 25% - Letters of Reference
• 25 % -Contributions to school or community; leadership activities and personal
achievements.
4. Review Process
4.1. Administration will review the submission and short-list those that appear to be fully eligible to
make an application.
4.2. Due to the personal and confidential nature of scholarship applications, Council’s review and
discussion of individual applications shall occur in a closed session during a regular Council meeting,
in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.
4.3. The final decision regarding the recipients of the Kneehill County Scholarship shall be made by
resolution of Council in an open session of Council.
5. Funding Allotment
The two successful candidates will each be awarded a cheque, in the amount of $2,000 upon receipt of
confirmation of enrollment at a recognized post-secondary institution.
6. Recognition of Award
Successful applicants will be notified in writing. Public recognition may occur through County
communications at the Administration’s discretion.
Amended: November 8, 2016 486/16
Amended: December 10, 2019 535/19
Approved: May 11, 2021 229/21
Approved: December 13, 2022 445/22
Approved: March 10, 2026 66/26
Review Date: March 10, 2030