Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by National Institute For Labor Relations Research
The Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship provides a $1,000 award each year to a student in education who demonstrates a strong commitment to Right to Work ideals. The scholarship memorializes Carol Applegate, Kay Jackson, and Dr. Anne Parks — three Michigan public school teachers dismissed solely because they refused to pay union dues — and seeks a candidate who reflects their professional standards and convictions.
Who is eligible
- Applicants must be enrolled in, or planning to attend, an accredited U.S. college, university, or other qualifying institution with a declared major in education (undergraduate or graduate). Current teachers working toward an advanced degree in education (for example, a master’s program) may apply.
- High school students and undergraduates who have not declared an education major are not eligible.
- Officers, directors, employees, and family members of the National Institute for Labor Relations Research and the National Right to Work Committee, as well as members of the Selection Review Committee, are ineligible.
Required materials
- An original, 500–700 word essay that demonstrates your writing ability and explains your understanding of Right to Work principles and the problems associated with compulsory unionism in education.
- A copy of your most recent transcript or an acceptance letter from the institution you will attend.
- A recent photograph.
- A completed online application form.
How applications are considered (selection process)
1. Applicants submit the completed application with the original essay, transcript or acceptance letter, and a photo.
2. Institute staff identify the strongest essays and remove any personal identifying information before sending them to the Selection Review Committee.
3. The Selection Review Committee — composed of at least three independent educators and Institute representatives — evaluates the essays anonymously, nominates and ranks up to three candidates, and forwards those nominations to the Institute’s Board of Directors.
4. The Board of Directors reviews the Committee’s recommendations and votes at its annual meeting (typically in April) to approve the top nominee, select a different candidate, or decide not to grant the scholarship that year.
5. Institute staff notify the recipient and issue a public announcement.
6. The $1,000 award is paid directly to the recipient’s institution.
7. At the end of the academic year, the winner (or the institution on the winner’s behalf) sends the Institute a copy of the recipient’s transcript.
Selection criteria
- Academic promise and the likelihood of successfully completing the chosen education program.
- A demonstrated interest in the work of the National Institute for Labor Relations Research and an understanding of Right to Work issues, shown through the required 500–700 word original essay.
Application steps — quick checklist
1. Confirm you meet eligibility requirements (U.S. institution, declared education major; not a high school student or an undeclared undergraduate).
2. Prepare your materials:
- Write a 500–700 word essay focused on Right to Work principles and compulsory unionism in education.
- Obtain your transcript or an acceptance letter.
- Have a recent photo ready.
- Complete the online application form.
3. Submit your application online or by mail. Be sure to verify that your submission was received.
The scholarship is awarded annually to one candidate whose academic record and written submission best reflect both the spirit of the Applegate-Jackson-Parks legacy and the Institute’s mission.