Together with an anonymous benefactor who wishes to honor the sacrifices made by U.S. service personnel, Kingswood Oxford School today announced the creation of the Tallwood Warriors Scholarship for military children. It is believed to be the only one of its kind in the nation.
“Our benefactor, Tallwood, believes strongly that there is no better gift for those who have served our country than a first-class education for their children at Kingswood Oxford School,” said Head of School Dennis Bisgaard. “The donor also hopes this will inspire other people to honor the service of the Warriors in their own lives by contributing to the fund – which would then allow even more military children to have the chance to attend KO.”
Intended for the children of active or retired military entering the sixth grade at KO, the scholarship amount is equivalent to a year’s tuition -- $33,675 -- at the independent private school for grades 6-12. Depending on the number of students who meet the criteria, the total amount could be divided among a number of students.
“This is an extraordinary gesture on the part of the donor and the school to demonstrate solidarity with these families who have sacrificed so much, and a very interesting way to encourage others to support the same families,” said Patrick Bassett, president of the National Association of Independent Schools in Washington, DC. “It will add another element of diversity to a school that’s already committed to diversity. And it’s an opportunity for KO to lead in yet another way.”
The Tallwood Warriors Scholars will be chosen from a pool of applicants who are otherwise qualified for admission to KO’s sixth grade and are dependent children of military families. They will be selected on the basis of financial need, academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, a statement of goals, and unusual personal or family circumstances. Preference will be given to children of service personnel killed or injured during active duty, including those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
“Our benefactor told me this is a very poignant week for the announcement of this scholarship – not just because of Veterans Day, but also for personal reasons,” said Debra Coleman Hyde ’68, KO’s Director of Institutional Advancement. “This week they celebrate the birthday of a deceased family member who would have entered the sixth grade at KO and whose dad served in the military.
“Tallwood said he is so pleased he has been blessed with the ability to do this and to truly make a difference in the lives of the children of those who have given so much to our country,” she added. “He hopes others will be so inspired.”
