Yukon mayor honors James Van Horn for fundraising scholarship achievements

Yukon Public Schools is taking significant steps to support students this summer, focusing on credit recovery programs to help those who need to catch up academically. During a recent meeting, school officials highlighted their efforts to engage students enrolled in summer school, emphasizing a collaborative approach to ensure they stay on track. With 65 spots available in the Yale program, discussions were held about potentially increasing capacity to accommodate more students, reflecting the growing needs of the community.

The meeting also touched on the importance of maintaining student engagement while they await placement in these programs. Staff members are actively monitoring a strategic list of students on the waitlist, ensuring they receive the necessary support and encouragement to complete their work.

In addition to academic initiatives, board members celebrated the successful graduation ceremony and the recent alumni banquet, which recognized students who received scholarships. However, concerns were raised about the low number of applicants for these scholarships, with only 17 students applying this year. Board members urged the community to spread the word about scholarship opportunities to encourage more students to apply.

A highlight of the banquet was the recognition of James Van Horn, a distinguished alumnus who has played a pivotal role in fundraising for scholarships since 1975. His contributions have resulted in over half a million dollars awarded to students. In honor of his dedication, May 31, 2025, was proclaimed James Van Horn Day by Yukon’s mayor, acknowledging his impact on the community and the importance of continuing the scholarship program.

As Yukon Public Schools moves forward, the focus remains on enhancing educational opportunities and ensuring that all students have the resources they need to succeed. The community's involvement will be crucial in supporting these initiatives and fostering a culture of academic achievement.