From: Brooke Glover, Marketing & Communications Director
Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce
During the July meeting of the Autauga County Board of Education, the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce proudly awarded scholarships to 13 students from the Autauga County Technology Center’s Early Childhood Education Program.
The scholarships were earned through the students’ participation in this summer’s Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) Program, funded through the Alabama State Department of Education’s Alabama Summer Adventures Program (ASAP) Grant. Through the program, students gained hands-on experience working alongside educators in summer learning classrooms, providing valuable support to younger students while exploring careers in education.
The scholarship recipients were:
- Cathryn Boone
- Montel Brown
- Cadee Chatman
- Brianna Moore
- Emily Dewald
- Mattie Carter
- Ellison Skeens
- Addison Lee
- Zoey Hyde
- Marleigh Cheshire
- Ryan Hilyer
- Madelyn Salter
- Caroline Thomas
The scholarships recognize the students’ commitment, leadership, and investment in supporting educational opportunities for younger learners throughout the summer.
“One of the most rewarding parts of this summer’s program was watching our ELO students step into real teaching roles,” said Holly McNider, Director of Curriculum and Instructional Services (K-6) for Autauga County Schools. “Through our partnership with the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce and Autauga County Technology Center, these high school students worked alongside our teachers, gained genuine classroom experience, and earned scholarships for their investment in our younger learners. It’s our hope that these students see themselves in this work and choose to return to Autauga County one day as educators of their own helping us grow not just this summer’s students, but the next generation of teachers who call this community home.”
Patty VanderWal, President of the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce, said the program demonstrates the importance of investing in students who are preparing to enter the workforce and make a difference in their communities.
“Workforce development begins long before graduation. The Chamber is honored to support these scholarships and encourage students as they explore careers in education. We are proud of their commitment and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in the future,” said VanderWal.
The Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce remains committed to supporting educational excellence, workforce development, and opportunities that prepare students for future success.
The mission of the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce is to strengthen the business environment and the community. For more information, please contact the Chamber at [email protected] or 334-365-7392.
