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Graduating from high school means the beginning of something new. While some Paramount students may head straight into the workforce or pursue other opportunities, many dream of continuing their education, if they can afford it. The Paramount Education Partnership (PEP) was created to make sure students can afford educational paths beyond high school and build the future they want.
PEP is a collaborative effort between the City of Paramount, the Paramount Unified School District and the Paramount Chamber of Commerce. Together, these partners work to invest in Paramount’s young people by helping students afford opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.
“PEP helped me finance my education and relieve some of the burden on my family. The combination of family support and scholarship like PEP helped me graduate without debt,” said 2009 PEP awardee Gabriela Robles.
PEP awards scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 to students who live in Paramount or attend Paramount Unified schools, have a minimum 2.0 GPA and are pursuing higher education at community college, vocational/trade/technical school or a four-year university. The program not only helps reduce financial barriers but shows students that their community believes in them and their potential. By supporting youth, PEP strengthens the future generation of workers and leaders.
For many recipients, the impact of the scholarship is more than just money. “The PEP scholarship helped me not only financially, but also motivated me to keep pursuing my goals,” Elizabeth Cossio, a 2011 PEP awardee, said. “It gave me a sense of accomplishment to know that I was worthy of receiving the scholarship from the City that I’ve always loved so much.”
Stories like Gabriela and Elizabeth’s remind us of why PEP matters: encouraging students to dream while remaining connected to their community. PEP recognizes that investing in students today helps build a safer, healthier and more attractive Paramount tomorrow.
Students can apply for a scholarship using the Kaleidoscope: PEP Scholarship Application through March 31.
To donate to the PEP program or learn more, contact the Community Services Office at (562) 220-2121 or visit Paramount Education Partnership.
