The Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) offers a scholarship program for high school juniors in the state of Minnesota. Up to four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded.

MAT is a non-profit corporation representing Minnesota townships while promoting an understanding of the heritage and future of town government.

The scholarship program is designed to further awareness and education about the township form of government. The association believes the process of applying for this scholarship program will help to educate students about the township form of government, its place and purpose in local government, and the involvement of citizens in grassroots government.

All students enrolled in the 11th grade and attending a Minnesota public, private, or parochial high school or a home study program who plan to further their education at a college, university, or vocational school are eligible. Children and grandchildren of MAT Directors and staff are not eligible.

Applicants must complete an application form and submit it along with a written essay discussing this year's topic: "Discuss the differences between township government and city government."

Essays must be between 450 and 500 words, and must be typed with double spacing. Applicants should not name themselves, their school, their town or city, or their local officials in the essay.

Along with the completed application and written essay, students must submit a current high school transcript and a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher or counselor. All items must be submitted in one envelope and mailed to: Minnesota Association of Townships Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 267, St. Michael, MN 55376, postmarked by May 1, 2007. Incomplete applications or applications postmarked after May 1, 2007 will not be accepted.

Each essay will be judged by an independent panel based upon originality, knowledge of subject matter in relationship to the title, and supporting statements, as well as correct spelling and punctuation. The judging will be completed by Oct. 1, 2007 at which time; up to four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded. Winners will be invited to attend the Minnesota Association of Townships annual meeting Nov. 15-17, 2007 at the St. Cloud Civic Center. Scholarship awards will be paid to the appropriate financial aid office upon receipt of verification of enrollment at a college, university, or technical school.