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John A. Logan College Officials Meet with Area High Schools as the Groundbreaking Promise Scholarship Kicks Off

Published on February 19, 2026

JALC staff promoting the Promise Scholarship at Carbondale High School’s 8th Grade Night.

John A. Logan College has launched a new program with its in-district high schools and private schools to provide last-dollar scholarships to participating students. College staff have been attending high school freshman orientations with in-district high schools and will continue to attend events throughout August. The Promise Scholarship aims to support local students by covering the remaining tuition costs at JALC after all financial aid and other scholarships have been applied.

Students must enroll in the Promise Scholarship Program by December of their freshman year of high school. While in high school, the program requires participating students to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, maintain a 90% attendance rate each year, and complete four years of math. Students must take 9 credit hours of dual credit or early college courses by the end of their senior year and take ORI 100 College Fundamentals by the end of their first fall semester as a JALC freshman. Students must maintain the requirements throughout high school and re-commit by September 1 each year.

“This is an exciting step forward for our community,” said Dr. Kirk Overstreet, President of John A. Logan College. “The Promise Scholarship is more than just financial support; it’s an investment in our students’ futures. We are committed to providing quality education and helping our students achieve their academic and career goals. With this program, we can ensure that more students can continue their education without financial stress.”

The program underscores the strong collaboration between JALC and in-district high schools, highlighting a shared commitment to educational excellence and student success.

Carbondale Superintendent Daniel Booth expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “The Promise Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for our students,” said Booth. “By working closely with John A. Logan College, we are providing a clear pathway for students to achieve their higher education dreams. This program will motivate our students to excel academically and give them the confidence that a college education is within reach.

The Promise Scholarship Program registration is open, and families have been enrolling. Applications will be available through each high school or online at https://www.jalc.edu/promise-scholarship/application/. Guidance and support will be provided to ensure students meet the eligibility criteria and benefit from this transformative opportunity.

For more information about the Promise Scholarship Program, please contact: promise@jalc.edu.