LOUISVILLE, Ky. — RJ Ballenger, a recent graduate of Ballard High School in Louisville, is just a few weeks into classes at Jefferson Community and Technical College.

What You Need To Know

  • Jefferson County Public Schools seniors can now apply for a scholarship to attend any Kentucky Community and Technical College or Simmons College of Kentucky

  • The scholarship is through Evolve502

  • Over 1,100 students have taken advantage of the program

  • The deadline to apply is mid-July 2024

He wants to become a pilot and is working to get an aviation maintenance degree.

“I wanted to go to a big university, but then I took a look into it and I realized it’s the same as going to a university, except I have more help,” said Ballenger. “It’s way, way, way easier on my family and my pockets.”

Ballenger received a scholarship through the public-private partnership, Evolve502.

From now until mid-July 2024, JCPS high school students from the class of 2024 can apply for a scholarship to attend schools in the Kentucky Community & Technical College System or Simmons College of Kentucky.

“This is a last-dollar scholarship opportunity, so it’s coming in to fill the gap between any other aid, national federal aid that students may get and the cost of tuition,” said Evolve502 executive director Marland Cole. “They must fill out the FAFSA and then enroll within at least nine credit hours within one of our supporting institutions.”

Over 1,100 students have taken advantage of the program and over 240 students have received a credential, certificate or associate degree so far, Cole said.  

“It tells us it matters,” she said. “We knew the main reason that kids were not pursuing a post-secondary education was because of cost, or the perception of cost and not having the resources at home to help guide them through the process. And so our scholarship opportunity really focuses in on that.”

The scholarship and other financial aid have allowed Ballenger to attend JCTC for free, he said.

“It feels great,” Ballenger said. “When I told my mom that … she didn’t have to worry about helping me cover my last bit of tuition, she jumped for joy. And it really made me feel good and kind of keeping that fire lit under me to keep trying, even though some days I don’t want to get up and go to class, some days I don’t want to do the homework. That’s always something that’s in the back of my mind saying, you got this for free. Not too many people have taken advantage of this opportunity, but I have and I’m going to use it to the best of my ability.”

Even if federal financial aid already covers full tuition, eligible students can receive a $1,000 grant per semester to help with other expenses, according to Evolve502.  

The deadline to apply is July 15, 2024.

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