Shore Scholars
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Inspiring ambition. Expanding opportunity.
Guiding the next step.
Where it Started
Launched in 2019 by Yadkin County Schools in partnership with the Shallow Ford Foundation, Shore Scholars serves students at Starmount and Forbush High Schools. The program is underwritten by the Wayne & Bradley Shore Endowment Fund, with the active support of their daughters Karen S. Hopper and Debrah S. Blase.
Who it is for
Shore Scholars is designed for motivated students who dream of college and could benefit from additional guidance and support along the way.
How it works
Each year, 10 students from Starmount High School and 10 students from Forbush High School participate as Shore Scholars. Students enter the program in 11th grade and remain involved through their sophomore year of college. As graduating seniors move on, five new students from each school are selected annually. Through mentoring, peer support, skill-building workshops, and college advising, Shore Scholars helps students stay focused on their goals and prepared for what's next.
Assisting with Expenses
Shore Scholars helps with registration fees, books, uniforms, and tools required by college classes. The program also provides limited last‑dollar scholarships for the first two years of college; students are guided to identify additional resources and scholarships to fully fund their path.
Meet the Mentors
Shore Scholars mentors walk alongside students throughout their educational journey. In high school, scholars are supported by dedicated school-based mentors, and after graduation, they continue receiving guidance through our program coordinator. Together, our mentors help students navigate important transitions, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals.
Jon Huggins
Program Coordinator
Natalie Vestal
Forbush High School Mentor
Tasha Williams
Starmount High School Mentor
Apply for Shore Scholars
Eligibility and Commitments
Applicants must:
- Be a rising 11th grader at Starmount or Forbush High School
- Have a near 3.0 GPA or higher
- Plan for college or career training after high school
- Meet monthly with a personal mentor
- Meet monthly with a peer group
- Commit to 3–4 years of enrollment (based on career pathway)
- Honor the school’s code of conduct and be a positive example
Have Questions?
We’re here to help students and families navigate the application process.
Create an Account
To begin the application process, create an account on our online portal.
Creating an account does not add you to the applicant pool — you must follow the next steps to submit an application.
Select Shore Scholars
After you log in, you’ll see all Shallow Ford Foundation opportunities (including scholarships and nonprofit grants).
Please make sure you select the Shore Scholars application before you begin.
Complete your Application
Once you have completed and submitted the Shore Scholars application, you will be added to the applicant pool.