Seattle Schools Scholarship Fund

Posted on: May 31, 2026

Summary: At the annual celebration, 74 seniors are awarded $10,000 scholarships to help with first year college expenses.

Rising Above: SPS Seniors Overcome Obstacles to Earn 2026 Scholarships

Each spring, the Seattle Schools Scholarship Fund (SSSF) celebrates students whose journeys to graduation reflect determination, courage, and hope.

At the 52nd Annual Awards Celebration on May 28, graduating seniors from every Seattle Public Schools high school were honored with $10,000 scholarships to support their first year of college. These one-time awards recognize more than academic performance. Recipients were selected for their contributions to school and community—and for their perseverance through life’s challenges.

Throughout the evening, students and counselors reflected on journeys shaped by resilience. Many of this year’s scholars navigated significant obstacles, including housing instability, long commutes, caregiving responsibilities, language barriers, and the impacts of war, displacement, or health challenges.

Counselor nominations highlighted powerful stories:

Students arriving in the U.S. and completing years of coursework in a short time
Young people forced to pause their education in their home countries then rebuild their academic paths
Caregivers balancing school with supporting family members facing medical challenges
Students experiencing homelessness or instability while staying on track to graduate

Despite these barriers, each recipient demonstrated a commitment to their education and a deep desire to give back to their communities.

Founded in 1974, the Seattle Schools Scholarship Fund continues to expand access to higher education, awarding scholarships to students representing every high school in the district. By investing directly in students’ futures, the fund helps keep college within reach for those who have already shown extraordinary determination.

2026 Scholarship Recipients by High School

Alan T. Sugiyama High School
Lupita Alejandre Verduzco