Bob Grundstrom was a dedicated, respected, and loved teacher of students with disabilities in the Vista Unified School District for 18 years. He was well known for his work with students with significant disabilities at the middle school, high school and college aged levels, and he developed the NCCSE regional classes at Sierra Vista High School, Palomar College, Mira Costa College, and Roosevelt Middle School. His gentle and caring way with everyone led both staff and parents to respect him and work together for the good of the students.

Through his love and concern for his students, Bob helped them to see and then realize their gifts to their fullest potential. In life as well as in his career, Bob was a strong supporter of higher education. Through his example and encouragement, he always led others to further their learning.

General Information

Funds are available for this scholarship to students who demonstrate financial need and intentions to attend higher education or training programs after high school or during transition services. The amount of the scholarship will be a one-time maximum of $1500. One scholarship will be awarded.

Eligibility

• Students who receive special education services from a NCCSE member district.
• Students who demonstrate financial need, established by qualifying for free or reduced lunch or other aid sources which can be verified.
• Eligible students are those who are not provided services by the following agencies:
  • Regional Center
  • Department of Rehabilitation
  • Department of Social Services
  • Social Security

Application Requirements 

All application requirements, as specified in the application packet, are to be completed by the student and must include:

• Completed application form. 
• Written, audio or video recorded statement.
• Authorization form to use likeness/materials and release of information.
• One letter of recommendation written by either a 1) special education teacher, 2) general education teacher or administrator, and 3) student choice (e.g. teacher, school counselor, coach, community member, employer, etc.) using the nomination guidelines.
• Copy of transcript that includes the overall/cumulative grade point average.
• Verification of free or reduced lunch or other aid sources.

Selection Criteria

• A committee will review the applications, conduct interviews and determine award winners.
• An award will be made to the individual demonstrating the highest level of commitment to his/her education as communicated in the personal statement, letter of recommendation, academic achievement, and financial need.

The Award Process

• The selection committee will review applications and conduct interviews in April.
• The award recipient will be announced in May. The recipient’s school will be notified for student recognition at award ceremonies.
• The award recipient is required to provide proof of enrollment for the Fall in a minimum of 9 units and a contact name and mailing information for the school’s financial aid/business office, to ensure proper payment to the student’s account at the school.
• Upon receipt of required materials, the award will be paid to the student’s account at the school.

The recipient is responsible to notify NCCSE of any change of address for all notices.

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Bob Grundstrom Scholarship is March 31, 2023. All application information must be received at NCCSE by that date.

Please note:
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed by the Committee. To check on the status of your application, call Fabiola Vasquez at 760.761.5119 or send your request to fvasquez@sdcoe.net

Download application packet

Complete application online