Orlando, Florida – With just weeks to go before their high school graduations, seniors at Jones and Evans high schools were surprised today with the news that they would receive a scholarship for free college or technical education at Valencia College. Private donations to the Valencia College Foundation made the life-changing gift possible.
“The Valencia College Foundation has secured funding through generous donors—including Lift Orlando—to provide scholarships to Orange County students from Jones and Evans high schools, similar to the Osceola Prosper program that provides scholarships to students in Osceola County,” said Dr. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College. “The recent success of Osceola Prosper has led to a substantial increase in the county’s college-going rate and has eliminated disparities in historically underrepresented communities. The objective in launching this new scholarship fund at Evans and Jones high schools is to boost college-going rates for students in Orange County.”
Valencia College and Orange County Public School leaders announced the new scholarship to seniors gathered in the gym, making it the emotional highlight of their day.
Every senior in the class of 2025 from Jones and Evans high schools is eligible to receive a scholarship that guarantees no out-of-pocket costs for tuition and fees, and can be used toward an associate degree, or hands-on technical training in programs that range from healthcare and advanced manufacturing to construction and transportation and logistics.
Dr. Maria Vazquez, superintendent of Orange County Public Schools said, “This is an incredible gift that can make a difference in the lives of hundreds of 2025 graduating seniors from Jones and Evans high schools. Removing the cost of tuition and fees can help reduce the monetary stress that is often associated with college. We are so grateful for Valencia’s unwavering support for our students.”
To qualify, eligible students must:
- Apply to Valencia College and register for at least one course or an Accelerated Skills Training program no later than the spring term of 2026
- Complete the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Use school code 006750.
More information on the scholarship, including upcoming information sessions, can be found at https://valenciacollege.edu/accessprogram.
Students who attend Valencia College are eligible for a wide range of free services, including:
VCentials – Free Access to food and essential items such as toiletries
https://valenciacollege.edu/resources/grants/vcentials.php
Free Access to Tutoring and Academic Support
https://valenciacollege.edu/students/learning-support/learning-centers.php
Free Access to Lynx
https://valenciacollege.edu/campaign/lynx.php
Free Counseling Services
https://valenciacollege.edu/departments/services/counseling/index.php
Child Care Assistance
https://valenciacollege.edu/resources/grants/child-care-assistance/
Student Clubs and Leadership Opportunities
https://valenciacollege.edu/students/student-development/get-involved/clubs-and-organizations.php