Edna Marie Robinson Poer Memorial Scholarship Foundation

The Kids First Scholarship Foundation is in the business of advocating for teaching as a career. Our approach is straightforward and long-term: 1) encourage K-12 students to consider teaching as a career; 2) provide financial assistance to aspiring teachers enrolled in K-12 teacher education programs; and 3) serve as a mentor to Kids First teacher candidates on their journey to a degree and licensure.

As the Director of the Kids First Scholarship Foundation, I am deeply passionate about empowering young people to pursue teaching as a career. Being part of a team dedicated to supporting future leaders, fostering their academic growth, and equipping them with the resources to succeed is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing the tangible impact of our efforts in helping students achieve their dreams inspires and motivates me every day. It's a privilege to contribute to such a meaningful and transformative mission.

Regina Ginn – Kids First Foundation Director

Ways to Donate 

Donations will be accepted for the sole purpose of support to K-12 students, teachers, and administrators, and providing financial scholarships to aspiring teachers enrolled in K-12 teacher education programs. 

Donations may be made “In Honor” or “In Memory” of someone who has played an important role or made an impact in your life. 

 

Kids First Scholarship Recipients

Savannah Tapp
In honor of Mississippi Association of Independent Schools. Savannah is attending Northwest Community College.
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Macy Oliver
In honor of MDE 2024 Teacher of the Year, Shauna Waters. Macy is attending Meridian Community College.
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Daylon Horton
In honor of MDE 2024 Administrator of the Year, Anita Wansley. Daylon is attending Meridian Community College.
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Jakyla Hawkins
In honor of Todd Willis, 2024 Rural Teacher of the Year. Jakyla is attending Northwest Community College.
Emma Watson
In honor of Dr. John Mark Cain, MASA 2022 Superintendent of The Year. Emma is attending Meridian Community College.
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Kylie Burnette
In honor of Ms. Susan Spiers, 2022 Rural Teacher of The Year. Kylie is attending MS Gulf Coast Community College.
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Kaitlyn Ward
In honor of Dr. Lundy Brantley, MASA 2023 Superintendent of The Year. Kylie is attending East Central Community College.
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Kaylee Taylor
In honor of Mr. Kenneth Watson, 2023 Rural Teacher of the Year. Kaylee is attending East MS Community College.
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Tamara Finklea
In honor of Ms. Louise Smith, 2023 MDE Teacher of the Year. Tamara is attending MS Gulf Coast Community College.
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Wesley Jobs
In honor of Dr. Caterria Payton, 2023 MDE Administrator of The Year. Wesley is attending the University of Southern MS.
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Heart 2 Heart 

The Heart 2 Heart project was started by Kids First Co-Founder Chuck Poer for the purpose of giving life to the stories and heart songs of educators.  Chuck’s book, Heart 2 Heart, was published in August of 2020 and is a collection of life-shaping accounts from Chuck and his oldest son Hayden, as well as Kids First Co-Founder Cellie Scoggin, Kids First coaches and specialists, and career educators who have dedicated their lives to serving KIDS.  These Heart 2 Heart narratives are authentic and powerful with heart-warming accounts and strategies that motivate and inspire, anchored with a sincerity that will sustain over time. 

We at Kids First invite you to hear our story and join us in placing kids FIRST. We hope that you will consider ordering your own copy of Heart 2 Heart by clicking the link below. Proceeds from the sale of Heart 2 Heart will go to the Kids First Scholarship Fund.   

Professional Partners 

Corporate Sponsors