As the Trump Administration seeks budget cuts to lower the nation’s $36 trillion debt, education is in its crosshairs.
There were already signs last year that fewer students were using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid; use of the application dropped 18% in 2024.
Sara Rolen, a counselor at Sierra Vista High School, believes the FAFSA usage drop has to do with “revamping” at the federal level. Yet, many students still rely on it thinking that it will cover all their education expenses.
“There is a $5500 per-year limit that students can borrow in loans,” she says. “Even for our in-state schools, $5500 is not going to completely cover the full year.”
That’s where outside scholarships come into play. The Public Education Foundation, a local non-profit that partners with the Clark County School District, is a popular source in Southern Nevada for financial aid. Every year, their privately funded Scholarship Plus Program rewards just over 1000 students with scholarships for further education. Last year they rewarded over $6 million worth of aid.
Kirsten Searer, President of The Public Education Foundation, says they offer scholarships for any students who have demonstrated achievements in overcoming adversity, debate, athletics; they even have a scholarship for those who maintain a C average.
“That’s what I love,” she says. “The individuals and corporations who contribute to these scholarships get to decide with the criteria is.”
As the 2024-2025 school year nears its end, Sara says it’s not too late for students and parents to apply for financial aid.
“There’s still tons of money out there on the table.”
Guests: Sara Rolen, counselor, Sierra Vista High School ; Kirsten Searer, president, Public Education Foundation
