Grand Island Senior High School
Open to a graduating senior student-athlete at Grand Island Senior High School.
The Scholarship
A $500 award for heart
Established in memory of Tonawanda native and world-renowned powerlifter Paul Childress, this scholarship is awarded to Tonawanda and Grand Island senior student-athletes who exemplify dedication, perseverance, and heart — regardless of ability.
Purpose
Why this award exists
Despite early learning challenges, Paul became a professional athlete, collegiate All-American, world record-holding powerlifter, coach, and mentor. He was known not only for his strength, but for his compassion, leadership, and unshakable commitment to others.
This scholarship celebrates his belief that all levels of dedication and commitment matter, and supports students pursuing college or trade careers.
Award amount
$500
Toward college or a trade program
Application deadline
April 1
Emailed submissions
Recipients notified
August 1
By email
Submit to
honorpaulchildress
@outlook.com Questions welcome at the same address
@outlook.com Questions welcome at the same address
Eligibility
Who can apply
Tonawanda Senior High School
Open to a graduating senior student-athlete at Tonawanda Senior High School — Paul's hometown school.
What we look for
- Excellence in academics — GPA, course rigor, and improvement over time
- Excellence in athletics — awards, varsity status, level of competition
- Leadership — captain roles, mentoring, lifting teammates up
- Community involvement — volunteer work and service with real impact
- Character — integrity, resilience, and sportsmanship
“Regardless of ability”
This phrase is deliberate. The award is not reserved for the most decorated athlete in the school. It is for the student whose dedication and commitment stand out at whatever level they compete.
Selection
How applications are scored
Every application is reviewed against a 100-point rubric balancing athletic excellence, academic performance, leadership, character, and community involvement.
Athletic Achievement25 pts
Demonstrated excellence in sport (awards, varsity status, leadership) and level of competition — school, regional, or national.
Academic Performance20 pts
Unweighted GPA, course rigor, and academic honors — plus consistency and improvement over time.
Leadership & Teamwork15 pts
Leadership roles such as captain or mentor, and demonstrated ability to inspire or positively impact teammates.
Community Involvement15 pts
Volunteer work, community service, or engagement outside of athletics — especially service relevant to youth or athletics.
Character & Personal Statement15 pts
Essay clarity, sincerity, motivation, and alignment with the scholarship's values — demonstrating integrity, resilience, or sportsmanship.
Recommendation Letters10 pts
Strength of endorsements from coaches, teachers, or community leaders, and insight into character, work ethic, and growth potential.
| Score | Assessment |
|---|---|
| 90–100 | Exceptional candidate; excels in all categories, strong role model. |
| 75–89 | Strong candidate; excels in most areas with good balance. |
| 60–74 | Average to good candidate; may have one weaker area. |
| Below 60 | Candidate needs further development or doesn't meet core criteria. |
Ready to apply?
The full application, required attachments, and submission instructions are all on one page.