Since 2010, the nonprofit Maine College Circle has talked with all students in grades 3 – 6 in the St. John Valley to inform and inspire their early aspirations and to highlight the value of effort. Local schools and community members have recognized 511 local students with Future of the St. John Valley College Aspirations Scholarships. Each year these communities celebrate the early effort and early aspirations of the scholarship recipients. The goal is to empower the youth of the St. John Valley to build a brighter future for themselves . . . and for their communities.