The BCATA Scholarship Program wishes to recognize academic achievement, leadership, integrity, and community involvement. Scholarships are awarded to seniors and graduates of East Bladen and West Bladen High School, as well as teacher assistants employed by Bladen County Schools.

This year BCATA awarded one $500 scholarship and two $250 scholarships to three students: Reana Johnson and Erin Davis of West Bladen High School, and Charlotte Chestnutt of East Bladen High School.

Johnson is the recipient of a BCATA Scholarship in the amount of $500. She plans to attend Fayetteville State University in the fall to major in nursing. Johnson is active in Junior Art Society, National Beta Club, FCCLA, and HOSA at West Bladen. She enjoys reading, writing, and volunteering her time at various day cares during the summer.

Davis is the recipient of a BCATA Scholarship in the amount of $250. She plans to attend UNCW in the fall to major in biology/pre-med. Davis is ranked in the top 20 percent of her graduating class. She is active in the National Beta Club, JROTC, HOSA, Student Government, History, Art, and the Debate club at West Bladen. She also serves as the Senior Class Treasurer and is active within her local community and church.

Chestnutt is the recipient of a BCATA Scholarship in the amount of $250. She plans to attend Methodist University in the fall to major in nursing. Chestnutt is ranked in the top 20 percent of her graduating class. She is a member of the National Honors Society, HOSA, Future Farmers of America, Dream Team, Keyettes, Cheerleading Squad, and Soccer Team at East Bladen. She is also a majorette in the East Bladen High School Marching Eagles Band and is active in her local community and church.

The BCATA Scholarship Program provides financial awards annually to deserving students and teacher assistants who are pursuing higher education. The scholarship application process is open annually from August through February. Members of the Bladen County Association of Teacher Assistants (BCATA) established this scholarship program to assist individuals in furthering their education at and accredited two- or four-year institution of higher learning.

Scholarships are awarded each year based on the amount of funds raised by the E.H.R. Committee through their annual scholarship raffle ticket fundraiser.

The 2016 Scholarship application will be distributed in August for all eligible individuals to apply. If anyone has additional questions concerning the BCATA Scholarship Program, contact the 2015-2017 Education and Human Relations Chairman William Johnston by email at wjohnston@bladen.k12.nc.us or by calling 910-874-3255.