The application process for the Texas Department of Transportation's 2019 Don't Mess with Texas scholarship contest is now open.
Any Texas high school senior attending public, private or home school and planning to attend an accredited Texas college or university in the coming year is eligible to apply.
The contest is presented in partnership with Keep Texas Beautiful and the Moody Foundation.
The contest will award one $6,000 scholarship and two $2,000 scholarships in May.
The scholarships recognize the achievements of high school seniors who are taking an active role in preventing litter in their schools and communities while working to build awareness for the Don't Mess with Texas initiative.
"We are looking forward to hearing about the creative ways students are taking the Don't Mess with Texas message into their schools and their communities," said Becky Ozuna, program administrator for TxDOT's Don't Mess with Texas campaign. "Over the years, the scholarship contest has proven to be a catalyst for jump-starting innovative litter prevention programs across the state, thanks to the efforts and leadership of Texas students."
TxDOT's Don't Mess with Texas program has been educating Texans about litter prevention since 1986.
The program includes Adopt-a-Highway and a grassroots partnership with Keep Texas Beautiful, as well as spring "Trash-Off" community outreach events.
To apply for the Don't Mess with Texas Scholarship, visit dontmesswithtexas.org. Applications must be received via online submission by 5 p.m. March 29.