Established in loving memory of “Mrs. Stratton” (1954-2014), the Elaine S. Stratton Memorial Scholarship Fund will provide an annual educational scholarship to a graduating senior at Johnson City Central High School.
Elaine was employed by the Johnson City Central School District for 24 years, serving as a teacher aid at both Harry L. Johnson Elementary School and the new K-2 Primary School. Educating children was Elaine’s passion, and she enjoyed the challenges as much as the rewards. Although she had a special way with all children, Elaine gravitated toward the “at-risk” student —the boy or girl who just needed a little extra attention to excel in school. Working with children gave her great pleasure, and she relished in and celebrated a student’s continued success through middle school, high school, and graduation.
Elaine’s care for children was not bound by school walls or school hours, though. Along with the students at school, her children, grandchild, countless nieces and nephews, and even the neighborhood kids, can attest to the way that Mom, or Grandma, or Aunt Elaine, or Mrs. Stratton found a way to make them feel important or special. Elaine constantly sought ways to brighten a child’s day, whether it was with a thoughtful gift, a kind or encouraging word, or even a birthday dinner. She was even known to purchase warm winter coats, clothes, shoes, and school supplies for students at school. Few knew she did it, and that was the way she wanted it. Because of her caring and humble nature, she perceived the purchases not as charity, but simply as necessity.
This scholarship, awarded to a graduating senior pursuing higher education, is given in honor of Elaine’s passion for working with children, and her desire to help them achieve both personal and academic success.
Scholarship Criteria
Scholarship applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Graduating senior from Johnson City Central High School
- Planning to pursue a college degree at a two-year or four-year college or university, or reputable trade school
- Cumulative GPA at or above 2.7 (B- average) at the time of application
- Is or at one time was considered to be an “at-risk” student
Additional information on the scholarship and criteria requirements can be found through the school’s Guidance Department.
Make your tax-deductible gift today!
Or mail your check to:
Community Foundation for South Central New York
520 Columbia Drive, Suite 100
Johnson City, New York 13790
Note Elaine S. Stratton Memorial Scholarship Fund in the memo
For gifts of stock or gifts other than cash, please contact foundation staff at (607) 772-6773.