State Policies on Access to Scholarships for Immigrant Students in North Carolina

1. What are the criteria for determining eligibility for state-funded scholarships for immigrant students in North Carolina?


1) Residency: To be eligible for state-funded scholarships, immigrant students must be legal residents of North Carolina.

2) Immigration status: Immigrant students must have a valid immigration status, such as permanent resident (green card holder), refugee, or asylee. Undocumented immigrants are not generally eligible for state-funded scholarships in North Carolina.

3) High School Graduation: Immigrant students must have graduated from a high school located in North Carolina or have received their GED/high school equivalency certificate in North Carolina.

4) Financial Need: Many state-funded scholarships take financial need into consideration when determining eligibility. Immigrant students may be required to demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

5) Academic Achievement: Some scholarships may require a minimum GPA or other academic qualifications for eligibility.

6) Other Requirements: Certain scholarships may have specific requirements related to the student’s intended major, career goals, community service involvement, or other criteria set by the scholarship provider.

It is important to note that eligibility criteria can vary between different state-funded scholarships in North Carolina. It is recommended that immigrant students research and review the specific requirements for each scholarship they are interested in applying for.

2. How does North Carolina ensure that immigrant students have equal access to scholarships as non-immigrant students?


1. Non-discrimination policies: North Carolina has laws in place that prohibit discrimination based on national origin or immigration status in any educational program or activity receiving state or federal funds. This ensures that immigrant students are not excluded from scholarship opportunities due to their immigration status.

2. Access to financial aid: Immigrant students, including undocumented students, are eligible to receive state financial aid through the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA). This includes need-based grants and scholarships such as the UNC Need-Based Grant, the NC Student Incentive Grant, and the NC Community College Grant.

3. Support for DACA recipients: The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides temporary protection from deportation for certain undocumented immigrants who came to the US as children. North Carolina has several programs specifically designed to support DACA recipients, such as the Golden Door Scholars program which provides college scholarships and leadership development for undocumented students.

4. Outreach and awareness: The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) offers outreach programs and resources to inform immigrant families about scholarship opportunities and how to apply for financial aid. These efforts aim to ensure that all eligible students, regardless of their immigration status, have equal access to available scholarships.

5. Collaborations with community organizations: Several community organizations in North Carolina work towards supporting immigrant students’ access to education and opportunities. For example, The Hispanic Liaison partners with local colleges and universities to provide scholarship assistance for Latinx high school seniors pursuing higher education.

6. Private scholarships: Many private organizations in North Carolina also offer scholarships specifically aimed at helping immigrant students achieve their educational goals. For instance, the New Roots Latino Scholarship Fund awards scholarships annually to a graduating high school senior from a low-income Latinx family living in western North Carolina.

Overall, by implementing these measures, North Carolina aims to ensure that immigrant students have equal access to scholarships as non-immigrant students and can pursue their educational aspirations.

3. What types of financial aid or scholarships are available specifically for undocumented immigrants in North Carolina?


There are limited financial aid and scholarship options available specifically for undocumented immigrants in North Carolina. However, some organizations and institutions may offer support to undocumented students, including:

1. The North Carolina Central University Dream Scholars program: This program provides scholarships and support services to qualified undocumented students attending North Carolina Central University.

2. The Golden Door Scholars Fund: This nonprofit organization offers scholarships to DACA recipients who are pursuing higher education in the United States.

3. The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA): This organization administers several financial aid programs that do not require proof of legal immigration status. Undocumented students may be eligible for the NC Need-Based Scholarship or the North Carolina Community College Grant.

4. Scholarships A–Z: This volunteer-run organization maintains a list of scholarships available to undocumented students in North Carolina and nationally.

5. Latin American Coalition Empowering Latina Leadership Alliance Scholarship (ELLA): Offered by the Latin American Coalition, this scholarship supports young immigrant women pursuing higher education.

It is also important to reach out to local community-based organizations, nonprofits, and advocacy groups in your area as they may offer additional resources or scholarships for undocumented students.

4. Are there any restrictions on scholarship eligibility based on immigration status in North Carolina?


Yes, there are restrictions on scholarship eligibility based on immigration status in North Carolina. Students who are not documented U.S. citizens or permanent residents are not eligible for certain state-funded scholarships, such as the North Carolina Education Lottery Scholarship (NCELS) and the North Carolina Student Incentive Grant (NCSIG). These scholarships require students to be legal residents of North Carolina, which may exclude undocumented students from eligibility.

However, there may be scholarships specifically designed for undocumented students or those with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. Additionally, some private scholarships may have more inclusive eligibility requirements and do not require proof of citizenship or legal residency.

It is important for students to research the specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship they are interested in to determine if their immigration status may impact their eligibility.

5. Does North Carolina offer any incentives or programs to attract and retain immigrant students through scholarship opportunities?


Yes, North Carolina offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students. Some of these include:

1. Carolina Covenant Scholarship: This program provides financial aid to low-income and first-generation college students, including immigrant students, who have demonstrated academic potential and a commitment to community service.

2. Golden Door Scholars: This scholarship is available to high-achieving undocumented students who are pursuing higher education at one of the partner universities in North Carolina.

3. Hispanic Scholarship Fund: This organization provides scholarships and services to support Latino students in their pursuit of higher education, including those in North Carolina.

4. NC Reach Program: This program provides college scholarships and support services to eligible young adults who aged out of foster care in North Carolina.

5. Dream.US National Scholarship Program: This national program partners with specific colleges in North Carolina to provide scholarships for immigrant students who came to the US as children and are ineligible for federal financial aid.

6. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarships for Undergraduate Transfer Students: This foundation offers scholarships to community college transfer students attending four-year colleges or universities in North Carolina.

Additionally, numerous universities and colleges in North Carolina have their own scholarship programs specifically for immigrant or international students. It is recommended that interested individuals contact their school’s financial aid office for more information on available scholarships.

6. How does North Carolina handle awarding scholarships to children of undocumented immigrant parents who do not have legal status?


In North Carolina, students who are undocumented immigrants and do not have legal status are not eligible for state or federal financial aid, including scholarships. There are some private scholarships available for undocumented students in the state, but they tend to be limited and competitive. Additionally, North Carolina does not have any laws or policies that specifically address scholarships for children of undocumented immigrant parents.

7. Are there any state policies in place to support immigrant students who may face barriers in accessing scholarship opportunities in North Carolina?


Yes, there are state policies in place to support immigrant students in accessing scholarship opportunities in North Carolina. Some examples include:

1. The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) offers scholarships specifically for immigrant and undocumented students, including the Golden LEAF Scholars Program and the Student Success Fund Scholarship.
2. The NCSEAA also has a policy that allows undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition at public universities if they meet certain criteria, such as attending a North Carolina high school for at least two years and providing proof of graduation or equivalent.
3. In 2017, the North Carolina General Assembly passed House Bill 750, which requires all colleges and universities in the state to adopt policies that provide equal access to scholarship opportunities regardless of immigration status.
4. Many private organizations and foundations in North Carolina also offer scholarships specifically for immigrant and undocumented students, such as the Hispanic Scholarship Fund – Charlotte Chapter and the Dream.US Scholarship.
5. The NCSEAA website has a dedicated page for information about financial aid for non-citizens, including resources and FAQs for immigrant students seeking scholarships.
6. Some colleges and universities in North Carolina have specific offices or staff members dedicated to supporting immigrant student populations and helping them navigate scholarship opportunities on campus.
7. The NCSEAA hosts outreach events throughout the year to provide information about scholarship opportunities and financial aid options to underserved communities, including immigrant populations.

8. What is the process for applying for state-funded scholarships as an immigrant student in North Carolina?


The process for applying for state-funded scholarships as an immigrant student in North Carolina may vary depending on the specific scholarship program. However, generally, the following steps are involved:

1. Check your eligibility: Before applying for any scholarship program, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria.

2. Research available scholarships: There are a variety of state-funded scholarships available for immigrant students in North Carolina. Research and identify the ones that best fit your qualifications and academic goals.

3. Complete the application form: Once you have identified the scholarship programs you wish to apply for, collect all the necessary application forms and fill them out completely and accurately.

4. Gather required documents: You will likely need to provide supporting documents such as transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. Make sure you have these documents ready and submit them along with your application.

5. Submit your application: Once you have completed your application form and gathered all required documentation, submit it before the specified deadline by mail or through an online portal, if available.

6. Apply for financial aid: Some state scholarship programs may require applicants to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their financial need.

7. Follow up with the scholarship provider: After submitting your application, follow up with the scholarship provider to ensure they have received all required documents and to confirm your submission status.

8. Wait for results: Scholarship providers typically take some time to review applications and make final decisions. Be patient while waiting for a response.

9. Accept the award: If you are selected as a recipient of a state-funded scholarship in North Carolina, follow instructions provided by the scholarship provider to accept or decline the offer.

10. Fulfill any additional requirements: Some scholarships may have specific requirements that must be met each year to continue receiving funding. Make sure you understand these requirements and fulfill them promptly to maintain your eligibility.

9. Are there any specific requirements or qualifications for immigrant students seeking scholarships at state universities in North Carolina?


The requirements and qualifications for immigrant students seeking scholarships at state universities in North Carolina may vary depending on the specific university and scholarship program. Generally, most universities have similar criteria for all applicants, regardless of immigration status.

Some common requirements for scholarships at state universities in North Carolina may include:

– Demonstrated academic achievement: This can include a minimum GPA requirement, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.
– Financial need: Many scholarships are based on financial need, and students may be required to submit documentation such as tax returns or income statements to demonstrate their financial situation.
– Residency in North Carolina: Some scholarships may only be open to students who are residents of North Carolina. In some cases, undocumented students who have lived in the state for a certain number of years may also be considered residents.
– Immigration status: While many scholarships do not require proof of citizenship or legal residency, some may have specific eligibility requirements based on immigration status. It is important for students to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship they are interested in.
– Essay or personal statement: Some scholarships may require applicants to write an essay or personal statement that showcases their goals, achievements, and financial need.
– Community involvement or leadership experience: Many scholarships value community service and leadership experience, so it is important for immigrant students to highlight any involvement they have had in extracurricular activities or volunteering.

It is also important for immigrant students to carefully research each scholarship opportunity to determine their eligibility and any additional requirements. They should also reach out to the financial aid office at their desired university for guidance on available scholarships and application processes.

10. How does the state government determine the amount of funding allocated towards scholarships for immigrant students in North Carolina?


The amount of funding allocated towards scholarships for immigrant students in North Carolina is determined through the state budgeting process. Each year, the state legislature decides on a budget for education, which includes funding for scholarships and financial aid programs. The governor then signs the budget into law, and the designated amount for scholarships is distributed to the appropriate agencies or institutions responsible for managing and awarding them to students.

Additionally, specific scholarship funds may be created through legislation or private donations that are earmarked for immigrant students. These funds often have their own application processes and requirements.

The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) is responsible for administering most state-funded scholarships in North Carolina, including those targeted towards immigrant students. They work with colleges and universities in the state to determine eligibility criteria and award amounts based on available funds from the state budget.

Overall, the amount of funding allocated towards scholarships for immigrant students in North Carolina may vary from year to year depending on state priorities and available resources.

11. Is there a maximum limit on the number of scholarships available for immigrant students in North Carolina each year?

There is no set maximum limit on the number of scholarships available for immigrant students in North Carolina each year. However, availability and eligibility may vary depending on the specific scholarship program and funding available. It is recommended to research and apply for multiple scholarships to increase chances of receiving aid.

12. Are there any exemptions or exceptions to scholarship eligibility requirements specifically for refugee and asylum-seeking students in North Carolina?


Yes, there are a few exemptions and exceptions to scholarship eligibility requirements specifically for refugee and asylum-seeking students in North Carolina:

1. In-state tuition rates: Under the Residency Determination Service (RDS) guidelines, certain categories of non-citizens, including refugees and asylees, may be eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in North Carolina, regardless of residency status.

2. Undocumented students: Some scholarships may specifically state that undocumented students, including those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, are eligible to apply. This may provide opportunities for refugee and asylum-seeking students who do not have conventional legal immigration status.

3. International student scholarships: There are some scholarships available specifically for international students studying in the United States, which may include refugee and asylum-seeking students.

4. Targeted programs: There may also be targeted scholarship programs that focus on supporting refugee and asylum-seeking students. For example, the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program offers graduate school scholarships to returned Peace Corps volunteers who work with underserved communities, including refugees.

5. Temporary relief from deportation: Students who have received temporary relief from deportation through programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) or Withholding of Removal may qualify for certain scholarships that require U.S citizenship or permanent residency.

It is important for prospective refugee and asylum-seeking students to thoroughly research individual scholarship opportunities to determine their eligibility before applying. Additionally, many college admissions offices offer specialized support and resources for these populations so it is important to connect with those offices at potential schools as well.

13. Does North Carolina have partnerships with private institutions or organizations to provide additional scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students?


Yes, North Carolina does have partnerships with private institutions or organizations to provide additional scholarship opportunities specifically for immigrant students. Some examples include:

1) The Hispanic Educational Technology Services (HETS) provides a scholarship program for immigrant students in North Carolina who are pursuing a higher education degree.

2) The Hispanic Scholarship Fund offers scholarships for first-generation college students, including immigrant students, who attend eligible universities in North Carolina.

3) The Golden Door Scholars program offers full-ride scholarships to undocumented students in North Carolina who demonstrate strong academic potential and financial need.

4) The North Carolina Society of Hispanic Professionals awards scholarships to Hispanic/Latinx high school seniors attending public schools in North Carolina, regardless of their immigration status.

5) Various community foundations in North Carolina offer scholarships specifically for immigrant students. For example, the Latino Community Foundation in Charlotte awards scholarships to high school seniors of Latino descent, regardless of their immigration status.

It is recommended that immigrant students research and apply for specific scholarships that are tailored towards their background and experiences. Additionally, many universities and colleges in North Carolina may offer institutional aid or grants specifically for undocumented or DACAmented students.

14. What measures has North Carolina taken to promote awareness of available scholarship options among its immigrant population?


North Carolina has taken several measures to promote awareness of available scholarship options among its immigrant population. These include:

1. Informative websites: The state government, along with educational institutions, has developed websites that provide information about available scholarships and financial aid resources for immigrants. These websites also offer guidance on the application process and eligibility requirements.

2. Outreach programs: Many organizations in North Carolina, such as the Latin American Coalition and the Hispanic League, organize outreach programs to connect immigrants with scholarship opportunities. They conduct college fairs, workshops, and seminars to educate students and parents about different types of scholarships they can apply for.

3. Multilingual materials: In order to reach out to non-English-speaking immigrant communities, the state provides informational materials in multiple languages. This includes brochures, flyers, and videos that explain the scholarship application process.

4. Collaboration with community organizations: The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction partners with community-based organizations that serve immigrant populations to spread awareness about available scholarships. This collaboration helps reach a wider audience and provide targeted information and support.

5. High school counselors: High school counselors play a crucial role in guiding students through the college application process and providing information about scholarships they may be eligible for. In North Carolina, there is a push for increased counseling services in schools with high numbers of immigrant students.

6 . Social media presence: The state government and educational institutions use social media platforms to promote scholarships among immigrant communities. This helps reach a larger audience and makes it easier for individuals to access this information.

7. State-funded scholarships: The state offers several scholarships specifically for undocumented or DACA-eligible students, such as the Golden Door Scholars Program and the NC Reach Program. These are advertised through local schools and community organizations.

8 . Financial aid events: North Carolina hosts financial aid events throughout the year where representatives from schools, colleges, universities, state agencies, private organizations, and federal agencies come together to provide information about scholarship options available to immigrant students.

9. Incentives for colleges and universities: The state offers financial incentives to colleges and universities that increase diversity through their admissions process, including enrolling a certain percentage of students from underrepresented communities, such as immigrants.

10. Providing resources for students with DACA status: North Carolina provides resources and guidance specifically for undocumented or DACA-eligible students on their college websites, including information about scholarships they may be eligible for.

15. Does the state government track and report on the success rate of awarding scholarships to undocumented and DACA-eligible students in North Carolina?


Yes, the state government tracks and reports on the success rate of awarding scholarships to undocumented and DACA-eligible students in North Carolina. The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) gathers and publishes data on the recipients of the NC GradsCount Scholarship, which is available to undocumented students who meet certain eligibility requirements.

According to the 2020-2021 report published by NCSEAA, there were 179 recipients of the NC GradsCount Scholarship, which is awarded to undergraduate students attending a public or private college or university in North Carolina. This number has steadily increased since the scholarship was first awarded in 2013-2014 when there were only 17 recipients.

The report also indicates that over 98% of NC GradsCount Scholarship recipients graduate from their respective institutions within six years of receiving the scholarship. This can be compared to an overall graduation rate of around 65% for all students in North Carolina.

In addition, the state government also tracks and reports on the success rates of other financial aid programs available to undocumented and DACA-eligible students in North Carolina, such as individual institutional scholarships and private scholarships targeted towards these students. However, specific data on these programs is not publicly available.

Overall, it appears that the state government places importance on tracking and reporting on the success rates of awarding scholarships to undocumented and DACA-eligible students in North Carolina. This allows for continued assessment and improvement of these programs for this population.

16. Are there any targeted efforts by the state government to improve access to scholarships for specific marginalized groups of immigrants, such as refugees, unaccompanied minors, or DACA recipients, within North Carolina?

There are some targeted efforts by the state government to improve access to scholarships for specific marginalized groups of immigrants in North Carolina. For example, the state offers a number of scholarships specifically for undocumented students, including the Merit Scholarship and the Golden Door Scholars Program. The North Carolina Latino Coalition has also established a scholarship fund to support Hispanic students pursuing higher education in the state.

The North Carolina General Assembly also passed legislation in 2015 (Senate Bill 15) that allows undocumented immigrant students to pay in-state tuition at public universities and community colleges in North Carolina. This makes it easier for these students to afford higher education and potentially qualify for scholarships.

In addition, organizations such as The Dream.US, which provides college scholarships to DREAMers, have partnerships with several colleges and universities in North Carolina, providing opportunities for these students to access higher education and potentially receive scholarships.

However, there is still much work to be done in terms of improving access to scholarships for marginalized immigrant groups such as refugees and unaccompanied minors. These populations may face additional challenges due to language barriers and lack of documentation, which can make it more difficult for them to qualify for certain scholarships or navigate the application process. Therefore, there is a need for further targeted efforts and resources to ensure equitable access to scholarship opportunities for all marginalized immigrant groups in North Carolina.

17. What steps does North Carolina take to ensure equal representation and distribution of scholarship awards among immigrant students from different regions or countries?

There is no specific policy in North Carolina that addresses the equal representation and distribution of scholarship awards among immigrant students from different regions or countries. However, there are a few steps that the state takes to promote diversity and inclusion in higher education, which can potentially benefit immigrant students.

1. Need-based financial aid programs: North Carolina offers need-based financial aid programs such as the UNC Need Based Grant, NC Student Incentive Grant, NC Education Lottery Scholarship, etc. These programs consider the financial need of the student rather than their nationality or region, thus providing equal opportunities for all eligible students.

2. Merit-based scholarships: Some universities and colleges in North Carolina offer merit-based scholarships to high-achieving students regardless of their nationality or region. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, community involvement, etc.

3. Diversity initiatives: Many universities and colleges have diversity initiatives in place to promote and support underrepresented groups including immigrant students. These initiatives may include targeted recruitment efforts, mentoring programs, cultural clubs and organizations, and campus-wide events that celebrate diversity.

4. State-level policies promoting diversity: The North Carolina Constitution guarantees equal educational opportunities for all individuals regardless of race, gender, religion or national origin. This commitment to diversity is reflected in state-sponsored campaigns such as “North Carolina Hispanic/Latino Outreach Initiative” which aims to increase Hispanic/Latino participation in higher education.

5. Assistance for DACA recipients: The NC Dreamers Program provides tuition assistance for undocumented students who have received Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status from the federal government. This program allows DACA recipients to attend public universities at an in-state tuition rate.

Overall, while there are no specific measures in place to ensure equal representation and distribution of scholarship awards among immigrant students from different regions or countries in North Carolina, these broader initiatives and policies can provide opportunities for diverse student populations including immigrants.

18. Are there any specific state policies regarding the use of scholarship funds for immigrant students to cover living expenses, such as housing or transportation, in addition to tuition costs in North Carolina?


There are no specific state policies in North Carolina regarding the use of scholarship funds for immigrant students to cover living expenses in addition to tuition costs. However, many universities and colleges in the state offer scholarships specifically for immigrant students, which can potentially cover some or all of their living expenses. Additionally, there are programs and organizations that provide financial assistance to immigrant students for living expenses, such as the North Carolina Immigrant Rights Project and the Weaver Fellowship Program. Eligibility requirements for these programs may vary. It is best to check with individual institutions or organizations for specific details.

19. How does North Carolina protect the privacy and confidentiality of scholarship applicants who may have immigration concerns when applying for scholarships?


North Carolina takes privacy and confidentiality very seriously when it comes to scholarship applicants. The state has laws in place that protect personal information collected from scholarship applications, including immigration status information.

One such law is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which applies to educational institutions that receive federal funds, including universities and colleges in North Carolina. This law protects the privacy of student education records, including immigration status information, by prohibiting schools from disclosing this information without written consent from the student.

Additionally, North Carolina has its own state laws that protect personal information collected by government agencies, such as scholarship application data. For example, the State Identity Theft Protection Act requires government agencies to take certain security measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

Furthermore, many organizations that offer scholarships in North Carolina have their own privacy policies in place to ensure the protection of applicants’ personal information. These policies may include safeguards against sharing or selling applicants’ information with third parties.

Overall, North Carolina has measures in place to protect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals who apply for scholarships in the state, regardless of their immigration concerns. It is important for scholarship applicants to carefully review each organization’s privacy policy before submitting their application to ensure that their personal information will be protected.

20. In what ways does awarding scholarships to immigrant students contribute to the overall state policy on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education in North Carolina?


Awarding scholarships to immigrant students in North Carolina contributes to the state’s policy on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education in several ways:

1. Increases access to education for underrepresented groups: Immigrant students, particularly those from low-income families, often face barriers to accessing higher education. By awarding scholarships specifically for immigrant students, the state is working towards increasing their representation in higher education and providing them with opportunities to pursue their educational goals.

2. Promotes a diverse student body: Awarding scholarships to immigrant students helps promote a more diverse student body on college campuses. This not only brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the classroom but also creates a more inclusive environment for all students.

3. Supports economic growth: Many immigrants are highly motivated and bring valuable skills and talents to the table. By awarding them scholarships, the state is investing in their potential, which can lead to economic growth for both the individual and the state as a whole.

4. Fosters cultural exchange and understanding: Having a diverse student body can also foster cultural exchange and understanding among students. As immigrant students share their cultures, traditions, and perspectives with their peers, it can help break down barriers and promote inclusivity on campus.

5. Addresses systemic inequalities: Awarding scholarships specifically for immigrants recognizes that these individuals may face unique challenges due to systemic inequalities such as language barriers or lack of legal status. By providing financial support, the state is acknowledging these disparities and working towards addressing them.

6. Demonstrates commitment to equity: By actively seeking out ways to support immigrant students in pursuing higher education, the state is demonstrating its commitment to equity in education. This sends a message that every student deserves equal opportunities regardless of their background or immigration status.

In summary, awarding scholarships to immigrant students aligns with North Carolina’s policy of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education by increasing access for underrepresented groups, promoting cultural exchange and understanding, and addressing systemic inequalities. It also demonstrates a commitment to creating a more equitable education system in the state.