Scholarship recipient Jessica Marks gives back as ASPSF volunteer

Jessica Marks (left) distributes Fall Scholarship checks and certificates.

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund Ozark Central Region is honored to recognize Jessica Marks as the Volunteer of the Month for June 2022.

Jessica began her journey with Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund in 2017 as a scholarship recipient. Today, she helps other single parents achieve their educational and career goals as a key volunteer by coordinating student interviews and award programs.

She also provides program support by contacting and helping single parents throughout the Ozark Central Region, which includes Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Sharp, Stone, and Woodruff counties.

Jessica Marks (left) distributes scholarship checks and certificates in the Ozark Central Region.

“When I received this scholarship, I didn’t know if I was going to make it,” she said. “I was so blessed when I got the news, so I understand the challenges a single parent faces, and I am so happy to be a part of this organization.”

Jessica graduated from Western Governors University with a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. Since 2018, she has taught resource English at Southside Charter School in Batesville.  Jessica loves working with children — “especially those who need extra love, care, and guidance.”

Previously, she worked at Southside Tracks Program, Southside Preschool, The Community School Inc., and Batesville School District. She has one son, Eli, who is in the ninth grade, and purchased her first home in August 2021.

Jessica Marks (left) speaks at an ASPSF event with fellow volunteers. 

In addition to volunteering at ASPSF, Jessica is an active member of her church, Weapons of a Warrior Ministries Inc. in Batesville.  Her hobbies include crafting, shopping at Goodwill, baking, and reading.  Her favorite things are avocados, earrings, Charlie Brown, and the beach.

“I hope to make a positive impact on my students’ lives that they can carry with them beyond the classroom,” she said. “Volunteering with ASPSF is another way I can make a difference.”

Thank you for all that you do, Jessica! To learn how you can support scholarships for single parents through volunteering, visit aspsf.org/volunteer.