P.E.O. Sisterhood awards grant to local

Naudia Cole, a Special Education Paraprofessional at Pawhuska Elementary, was recently awarded a $1,500 continuing education grant (PCE) from the International Chapter P.E.O. Sisterhood.

P.E.O.’s Program for Continuing Education was established in 1973 to provide need-based grants to women in the United States and Canada whose education has been interrupted and who find it necessary to return to school to support themselves and/or their families.

Cole was recommended for this scholarship by Pawhuska P.E.O. Chapter EM. She is attending college part time to become a Special Education teacher. Naudia has worked for Pawhuska Public Schools for three years and is involved as a coach for Special Olympics.

“Naudia is a hard worker and a valuable asset to our special education team. She is constantly looking for ways and resources to help the students with whom she works,” said Director of Special Education Gerry Craun.

To be considered for the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Program, a woman must be a citizen of and studying in the United States or Canada, have had at least 24 consecutive months as a nonstudent sometime during her adult life and be within 24 consecutive months of completing her educational program. Applicants cannot be enrolled in a doctoral degree program or an educational program leading to employment or job advancement. . An applicant must also be sponsored by a P.E.O. Chapter.

P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.