Helen Whalen Scholarship

2026 Helen Whalen Higher Education Scholarship Presented by the Oak Lawn-Hometown PTA Council

Dear current high school senior and former District 123 Student, 

The Oak Lawn-Hometown District 123 PTA Council is proud to announce the Helen Whalen Scholarships, established to honor Helen Whalen, a dedicated volunteer who made a lasting impact on District 123 schools and the PTA. This year, three deserving students will each receive a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their achievements and dedication.

Students who meet the following criteria may apply:

• Graduating high school senior 
• Ranks in the upper 50% of their graduating class at the end of the first semester of senior year 
• Plans to attend a community college, university, or trade school 
• Has attended at least four school years in District 123

Applications Open: December 1, 2025

Applications Close: February 27, 2026, at 4 PM

Notification of Winners: April 2, 2026

Awards Dinner: April 20, 2026

All components of the scholarship application are due no later than 4 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026. Use the checklist inside the application to ensure you have completed all parts of the application.

Winners will be notified by April 2nd. All applicants will be notified after the winners have been selected. Winners will be invited with their families to an awards dinner on April 20, 2026 at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School (OLHMS). 

Sincerely,

Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 PTA Council
ptacouncild123.scholarship@gmail.com