A new scholarship at Keuka College is aimed at helping future teachers cover the often-overlooked costs that come with student-teaching.
The Crystal Gips Next Generation Educator Scholarship was created by alumna and former board chair Crystal Gips, Class of ’65. The award provides up to $750 per student to help education majors pay for expenses tied to certification exams, licensure fees, transportation, professional attire, and classroom materials.
College officials say those costs can add up quickly, especially since student-teachers are often advised not to work during their placements so they can focus on the classroom.
Gips said the scholarship is meant to remove barriers that might otherwise delay or discourage students from entering the profession.
“I thought it was something that could really serve as a bridge over an obstacle that might have deterred students’ professional development,” she said.
Education faculty note that becoming a licensed teacher in New York involves several additional steps after graduation, including exams and state certification requirements that come with added fees.
The scholarship was piloted during the fall semester, and every student in the cohort applied. Faculty members say many applicants planned to use the funds not only for their own needs, but also to purchase supplies and resources for their future classrooms.
Overcoming Obstacles
Becoming a teacher in New York isn’t just hard work — it can be expensive.
Division Chair and education professor Klaudia Lorinczova says the costs add up fast.
“To become a teacher in New York state is not cheap,” she said. “You finish your degree, but then you still have the licensure process with the New York State Department of Education. You have to pay for certification exams, too. It all costs money.”
That’s something recent Keuka College graduate Jessica Avery knows firsthand. The Early Childhood and Special Education major from Victor had to delay taking her certification exams because of unexpected expenses.
Student-teachers often cover transportation, professional clothes, testing fees, and even classroom supplies — all on top of everyday bills.
“So I was thrilled by the generous opportunity Dr. Gips gave us,” she said.
The scholarship launched in fall 2025, and the reaction was immediate. Lorinczova said the online seminar “filled with joy” when it was announced, and every student in the group applied.
What stood out most wasn’t just financial need, but how many students wanted to use the money to help their future classrooms.
“More than half talked about buying things for their students,” she said. “That really shows the heart of who they are as future teachers.”
Instilling Confidence
The scholarship idea came from Dr. Gips’ own experience as a student-teacher decades ago. She was able to rent a room and get meals for just $10 a week — something she knows isn’t realistic today.
“I was unbelievably fortunate,” she said. “Students now need a lot more resources just to do their placements well.”
She hopes the scholarship helps students focus less on money and more on learning and growing.
“Anything that gives students confidence — whether it’s professional clothes, classroom materials, or not worrying about gas money — is worth it,” she said.
That peace of mind meant everything to Jamie Tilbe, another Keuka graduate who now teaches preschool special education in Watertown.
“It lets education majors focus on student-teaching without all that financial stress,” Jamie said. “This scholarship can really make a difference for people entering the field.”
