Clarinet Scholarship &
Education Program
The Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program seeks to honor Renna Clarinet Thornton’s philosophy and enthusiasm for education.
After graduating from Coppin State College with her degree in special education in 1972, Renna started her 40-year teaching journey with Baltimore City Public Schools as a science teacher and special educator.
Through the Clarinet Program, the Claude C. Thornton Foundation offers workforce development training, a $1,000 scholarship to collegiate students, as well as parent coaching 1:1s and workshops.
Mission of The Clarinet Scholarship Program
The Clarinet Scholarship provides awardees with unrestricted monetary and mentorship support to empower minority students through their academic journey, ultimately promoting exceptional achievement. The Clarinet Scholarship also serves to encourage awardees to continue utilizing inquiry-based strategies to gain the academics and skills needed to be victorious and productive within the community.
The Clarinet Scholarship Invites Incoming College Sophomores Who:
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Are passionate about education and extra-curricular activities
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Desire to support and serve the community
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Are majoring in Education or STEM fields of study
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Of a minority group (preferred)
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Have had some setbacks during their freshman year and are looking for monetary and mentorship support to get back on track
Application Requirements
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Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 and above
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Must be an incoming college sophomore
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Must submit two personal letters of recommendation via email to cari@thecctfoundation.org by 8/31/2025
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Must complete a typed application Via Google Form
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Must complete responses to 4 essay questions (150-250 words each)
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Must register for participation in at least one Mentor Circle event (in person or virtual)
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Special consideration will be given to those studying STEM, economics majors, and/or education majors
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Special consideration will be given to those who list volunteer and extracurricular activities
Acceptance and
Distribution Process
● Scholarship recipients will receive a congratulatory email with instructions regarding the award's disbursement
● All scholarship recipients are asked to submit a headshot photo and bio to share their accomplishments within the Claude C. Thornton mentor program and via the Foundation's communications
● Scholarships will be disbursed directly to the student via Zelle or paper check
2025 Clarinet Scholarship Award Ceremony
Parent Advocacy and Coaching Workshops
Our Parent Advocacy workshops are here to equip parents with the tools and resources to advocate for their children effectively.
Do you have questions about the overall education system and its processes? Do you want to escalate some questions or concerns but don’t know how to go about it? Do you usually work during school hours and want more insight into your baby’s school day? Do you need an action plan to speak up about your child?
We’re here to help!