Purpose:
$4,000 scholarship awarded annually to a student who attended Ponca Hills Elementary School for at least 2 years. Recipients will have demonstrated the values of connection, care, and service exemplified by Gerald “Jerry” Hodges, Sr., for whom this scholarship fund is named.
Gerry Hodges has lived most of his life in the Ponca Hills area, where his quiet strength and unwavering commitment to others have made him a beloved community figure. Now in his 90s, Gerry is still known for checking in on neighbors, lending a helping hand, and volunteering his time without asking for anything in return. He doesn’t do it for attention—he does it because he believes in the power of kindness and connection.
Gerry teaches us that real leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about service. He’s the neighbor who shovels your sidewalk without being asked, the volunteer who keeps showing up long after others have gone, and the friend who remembers your name and makes time to listen.
This recognition seeks to honor students who reflect Gerry’s legacy of quiet leadership and compassionate action.
As part of the scholarship application, students will nominate an Omaha Public Schools (OPS) teacher or staff member who played an important role in their personal development of kindness, volunteerism, and community service. A $1,000 cash prize will be awarded to OPS educator, staff member, or administrator identified by the student selected for the Hodges Scholarship.
Eligible Recipients:
1. Graduating Omaha Public Schools senior who attended Ponca Hills Elementary for a minimum of three (3) full-school years.
2. Must have a high school GPA of 3.0 or above
3. The teacher/staff nominated by the winning student will be a current OPS employee and deemed in good standing by relevant supervisors.
Selection Criteria:
1. Students must submit the Gerald Hodges, Sr. Scholarship Application Form with all its requirements through the OPS Foundation Portal
2. Students must submit a current transcript and financial information
3. Students must submit a short essay. Essay is to focus on the experience as a Ponca Hills Elementary student in developing their ethic of service and connection to their community.
4. Essay will also require nomination of a current OPS teacher/educator for recognition and cash-prize (as described above)
5. Students must list field of study and college(s) to which they are applying.
Selection Process:
The selection committee will be comprised by the principal and identified staff of Ponca Hills Elementary. Should you be selected for this award, please send verification of your enrollment at the school of your choice and a “Thank You” note directed to the donor to Omaha Public Schools Foundation. The award will be forwarded to the school.
Administered by:
The Omaha Public Schools Foundation
