There’s no denying the value of the Mississippi Scholars program. Now in its 11th year in Lincoln County, the program has pushed hundreds, maybe thousands, of high schoolers to stay in school, take more challenging courses and boost their ACT score.

Last year, about 185 local students were named Mississippi Scholars.

The program gets students career and college ready, which is a boost not only to their own futures, but to the county’s future as well.

The reward for their hard work is scholarship money to help them pursue their dreams.

The scholars leave high school with the work ethic needed to succeed, whether in college, a career or technical school.

“In the process of talking about course of study, we talk to them about work ethic,” Kenny Goza said. “We’re not working to find them a job. We’re working to find them a career, which in turn helps our community.”

The program has been successful in Lincoln County because of the work of organizers and school superintendents and principals.

It’s also successful because of volunteers who pitch in to make presentations at schools and donors who contribute to the scholarship fund.

Both are needed as the program gets ready to honor another class of scholars. For more information about volunteering or giving, call 601-757-3361, 757-8356 or 601-695-8123.