Margaret L. Palmer was born in Newberry, Michigan. She received her teaching certificate in 1927 from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Michigan. In 1956, Miss Palmer moved to Saginaw to teach first grade at North Elementary School. Retiring in 1974 after 46 years of service, Miss Palmer’s teaching made a difference in the lives of countless young people.
William H. Palmer established this scholarship in honor of his sister. “Education was so important to her,” remembered Bill, “I can still recall the opening days of school. Her enthusiasm was just bubbling. You couldn’t help but realize how teaching was more than just a job for her.”
“She influenced so many people. People still come up to me and tell me how Margaret made a difference in their lives or in the lives of someone they know. There were no bad youngsters as far as she was concerned. Good teachers like Margaret are necessary to inspire young minds. That’s why the Margaret L. Palmer Scholarship is designated for those interested in elementary education.”
Qualifications
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Pursuing an undergraduate degree in elementary education at a Michigan college or university
- Graduating senior from Saginaw United High School, Saginaw Arts & Sciences Academy or Heritage High School
- Full-time enrollment
Evaluation Criteria
- Scholastic record (25)
- Demonstrated qualities of citizenship and leadership (15)
- Essay (15)
- Honors (15)
- Community activities (10)
- Extracurricular activities (10)
- Recommendations (10)
Financial need will be taken into consideration only as a tie-breaker between two equally qualified applicants