Justin Potter Library has agreed to assist the board of education with The Tennessee Promise initiative by providing computers and a place for seniors to apply for scholarships, as well as for adults to sign up for the mentoring program. They will also offer opportunities for students to complete the community service required.

Sept. 25 through Oct. 30, the library will provide computers and quiet space each Thursday from 3-5 p.m. for high school seniors to go online at www.TNPromise.gov to apply for the Tennessee Promise scholarship, and for adults to sign up as mentors and community members for find out more information about the initiative.

Dec. 4 through Jan 15 those computers and space can be used Thursdays from 3-5 p.m. to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the students' college applications.

Jan 22 through Feb 26, TNPromise scholars can complete their eight hours of community service as volunteers at Justin Potter Library on Thursdays between the hours of 3-5 pm.

We believe the Tennessee Promise will make a huge difference in the lives of our DeKalb County students and their families, and we look forward to supporting them on this journey.

The program will provide students with a last-dollar scholarship, meaning the scholarship will cover tuition and fees not covered by the Pell grant, the HOPE scholarship, or TSAA funds. Students may use the scholarship at any of the state’s 13 community colleges, 27 colleges of applied technology, or other eligible institution offering an associate’s degree program. While removing the financial burden is key, a critical component of Tennessee Promise is the individual guidance each participant will receive from a mentor who will assist the student as he or she navigates the college admissions process. In addition, Tennessee Promise participants must complete eight hours of community service per term enrolled, as well as maintain satisfactory academic progress (2.0 GPA) at their institution.