Lincoln Foundation’s signature educational program serves the needs of academically talented, socioeconomically disadvantaged students in grades 7-12.
The goal of the program is to empower students toward academic achievement and college graduation.
Is This An Education or Career Development Program?
The Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program® is an educational enrichment and holistic development program with a college readiness curriculum focus for grades 7-12.
Who can apply?
Students in grade 6 who have a minimum 3.0 GPA and qualify for free or reduced lunch may apply.
When can I apply?
Lincoln Foundation accepts applications annually January through March.
How do I apply?
Students and parents/guardians must complete Sections A & B of the online application and then submit a link to a school representative to complete Section C.
What is the deadline to apply?
All three sections of the application must be completed by March 31. Incomplete and late applications will NOT be considered.
We highly recommend that Sections A & B be submitted no later than March 15 to enable your school representative time to complete Section C by March 31.
If I was not accepted in the past, can I reapply?
Yes. Eligible students who applied and were not accepted in a previous year(s) are encouraged to reapply.
Why was I not accepted even though I met the eligibility requirements?
The Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program® is highly competitive and space is limited, therefore not all who apply will be accepted.
What is the role of parents/guardians?
Parents/guardians are expected to actively participate and become strong advocates for their Scholars.
Is this a scholarship program?
No. The Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program® assists Scholars and their families in identifying/obtaining scholarships and financial aid for post-secondary education.
The educational program also provides Scholars with limited scholarships upon high school graduation and as an incentive for academic achievement throughout their college years.
Can I participate even if I don’t attend a JCPS school?
Yes. Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program® is open to all public and private students throughout the Louisville Metro area and surrounding counties.
Is there a fee to participate?
Yes. Scholars accepted into the program pay an annual registration fee of $25.
Does Lincoln Foundation provide transportation?
No. Scholars are responsible for their own transportation, but Lincoln Foundation provides TARC tickets to those who ride the bus.
When do Scholars meet?
Gheens Foundation Educational Clinics usually meet on the 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month during the school year from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Parental Institutes normally meet on the 3rd Saturday of the month during the school year from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Where do Scholars meet?
Gheens Foundation Educational Clinics meet at local area colleges and educational venues.
Parental Institutes normally meet at Jefferson Community & Technical College.
How long is the program?
Scholars typically are active in the Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars Program® for a six-year period from grades 7-12. Lincoln Foundation continues to support its Scholars through college and beyond.
Are there summer education program requirements?
Yes. Summer educational programs are offered for Scholars in grades 7-9.
Yes. Summer Institutes for Scholars in grades 10-12 meet for a two-week academic, residential experience on a college campus.
Who teaches the Scholars?
Lincoln Foundation staff consists of certified teaching professionals for all educational programs.