A South Portland High School senior, Huck Charah, updated the Board of Education on a senior project to fund scholarships for students to study abroad. Huck told the board he has raised $77,100 plus a $20,000 challenge grant from one donor, and that the donor will match additional contributions up to $20,000.

“Their $20,000 challenge grant will match every additional donation starting now up to $20,000,” Huck said, describing a plan that could bring the total to about $48,500 if the matching funds are fully met.

Why it matters: The project would lower financial barriers to study-abroad opportunities for South Portland students. Huck said the scholarships are intended primarily for economically disadvantaged students and that final selection criteria remain to be developed.

Board response and next steps: Board members encouraged Huck to secure a stable fiscal home for the funds and to convene a selection committee that would include teachers and other community members. Board member Holman suggested the district convene a committee that would include the high school, teachers and members of the community to “formulate those decisions together.” Matheny said district communications staff will connect Huck with local media contacts.

Operational details still to be decided: Huck said he is working on selection criteria and has set up a GoFundMe link for donations. Board members recommended placing funds in an appropriate account (for example, a 501(c)(3) or district-managed account) so donations are protected and distribution is transparent.

Ending: The board and staff offered to help with media outreach and logistics; staff member Stephanie Visiglia will follow up with Huck to connect him with a local news contact and the board’s communications team.