The World Class Scholars (WCS) program is a collaboration between local school districts, Grays Harbor College, and the Grays Harbor College Foundation. This initiative provides a pathway to higher education for students across Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, starting as early as 9th grade, and offers a scholarship to those who complete the program.
Grays Harbor College manages and administers the WCS program, guiding local students through the process of exploring and accessing higher education opportunities. The Grays Harbor College Foundation supports the program through funding from donations and grants, and presents scholarship awards annually to students who complete the program.
Recognized for its impact, the WCS program received the Innovation in Education Award from the United States Senate in 1999 and continues to be a vital resource for students in the Twin Harbors region.
How Does It Work?
Students commit to several academic, leadership, and community service goals before graduating high school. In return, Grays Harbor College guarantees entrance and provides a scholarship from the Grays Harbor College Foundation for their first year at the college. The World Class Scholars Scholarship is available for up to 25 months after high school graduation.
Get Involved Now!
Students can enroll in the World Class Scholars program through their schools in Grays Harbor & Pacific Counties or by using the application form below.
Student Commitments
To participate, students agree to:
- Attend and graduate from a Grays Harbor or Pacific County School.
- Enroll in the World Class Scholars program as a ninth grader.
- Complete 40 hours of community service by their senior year.
- Submit all required program materials.
- Participate in required program events.
Transfer students may join the program after 9th grade but must complete 10 hours of community service for each year they are involved in the program.
Community Service Requirement
- If community service hours are required for high school graduation, they may also fulfill the World Class Scholars program requirement.
- The World Class Scholars Coordinator will collaborate with high school counselors at the end of the student’s senior year to confirm completion of this requirement.
- Any community service form accepted by the high school is valid for the World Class Scholars program. A generic community service form is also available below.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact the World Class Scholars Coordinator at WCS@ghc.edu.
