Take Stock in Children Scholarships
Learn more about the Take Stock in Children program and associated scholarships.
Previous Recipients of PEF Scholarships
For previous scholarship recipients who need to request funds, please complete the form below and return it to the Polk Education Foundation using the address provided on the form. A copy of the thank you note written to your donor must also be on file with this form to have funds disbursed.
Scholarship College Information Sheet
Recipients receive a copy of the Scholarship Policy with their award letter. A policy copy is also sent to each college or university with scholarship checks.
PEF Scholarship Policy (2025)
Fund a Scholarship
You can sponsor a scholarship for Polk County High School graduating seniors in your club or business name, or, in memory of a loved one. After the application period ends, all scholarship applications are collected, screened and recipients selected through a competitive application process using the criteria each donor has set. We strive to make sure each application is given focus and attention to allow for the best candidates to be awarded scholarships. Donors can choose to participate in the selection process or allow a PEF committee to make those selections. Donors determine the criteria and the amount for the award. Scholarships can be designated for certain schools or groups of recipients. PEF staff would be happy to speak to you about the process, call 863-534-0519 to discuss.
Scholarships are promoted online each fall through the Polk County School District and Polk Education Foundation. Scholarship funds are awarded in the spring of each year; funds are not distributed directly to the student. A check is mailed payable to the college of the student's choice during the first part of July. Thank you notes are required for each donor of a scholarship to be sent to Polk Education Foundation by its recipient prior to funds being disbursed.
By creating an endowed scholarship, you will have a perpetual scholarship awarded each year with no other investment needed. Endowed funds must however be invested for one year before they pay for an award. PEF's endowment funds are professionally managed by at least 2 management firms per PEF policy. Currently a $12,000.00 donation equals a perpetual $500 scholarship. Endowed amounts and corresponding awards increase incrementally by each $12,500 donated. For more information, please contact Jessica Hope phone: 863-534-0519.