Several months ago, I introduced the EUP Promise Zone in my article. We are proud to announce the official launch as one of Michigan’s 15 designated Promise Zones. The EUP Promise Zone is a public-private partnership authorized by Michigan legislation, with a mission to reduce financial barriers to higher education and create a more vibrant, qualified local workforce. By offering scholarships and tuition assistance, the Promise Zone ensures that students from all backgrounds have access to opportunities beyond high school.
The EUP Promise Zone will begin by offering $500 last-dollar scholarships to eligible students attending Bay Mills Community College or Lake Superior State University. These scholarships will be available for 2026 and 2027 graduates. They will be funded through local contributions totaling $102,500 annually during the initial phase.
In Phase Two, beginning in year three, the Promise Zone will become eligible for state funding through the Michigan State Education Tax (SET). This funding is based on the growth of the State Equalized Valuation (SEV) within the Promise Zone boundaries. As SEV increases, the Promise Zone captures 50% of that growth. The intent is to expand the Promise, in future years, to other educational entities in Michigan, including trade schools.
Any student graduating from a school registered with the Eastern U.P. Intermediate School District—including public, private, and home schools—is eligible to apply for the scholarship.
Why Bay Mills and LSSU?
Community College tuition is currently free for Michigan graduates enrolled full-time. This helps defray the cost of meeting the Promise. The Promise Zone aims to keep students local, supporting regional development. The funding model is based on enrollment history and projected costs.
The EUP Promise Zone is governed by an 11-member board responsible for creating and updating the Development Plan, which outlines the scope of financial support offered. This plan is submitted to the Michigan Department of Treasury and serves as a binding commitment to students and families.
Contributions to the EUP Promise Zone directly benefit local students and remain within the community. Donors can be assured that their support helps build a stronger, more educated workforce in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
Donations can be made online at https://www.chippewacountycommunityfoundation.org/donate/ or mailed to:
EUP Promise Zone
c/o Chippewa County Community Foundation
PO Box 1979
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
For more information, go to https://eupschools.org/eup-promise-zone.
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Angie McArthur, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Empowered Learners...Exceptional Education...Strong Communities