About

Dollars for Scholars is a nonprofit group dedicated to giving Newton high school graduates scholarships for 2 or 4 year degree programs or for trade schools. The Newton Dollars for Scholars local chapter was chartered in 1985 and is affiliated with Scholarship America of St. Peter, Minnesota. The organization is comprised of a committee of volunteer trustees as well as two student trustees. Newton Dollars for Scholars awards are available to students who graduate from either Newton High School or West Academy High School, both located in Newton, Iowa. Newton Dollars for Scholars is funded by a Christmas "Tour of Homes" and the generous contributions of area business institutions, service clubs, booster clubs, families, anonymous foundations, and memorials. In addition, major bequests and donations facilitated by local attorneys and financial institutions have allowed the establishment of an endowment fund that ensures that the program will continue into the future. The generosity of the local community allows students to pursue education beyond their senior year. In its 36 years, Newton Dollars for Scholars has awarded over 3,307 scholarships totaling more than $2,450,150 to Newton Senior High School, Basics & Beyond High School, and West Academy High School graduates. The amount of each scholarship has ranged from $100 to $2,500. (May 2021)