Newtown High School English teacher Ellie Hanna presented graduating senior Danielle Gaiser with the first Jeans for Teens Scholarship check, on June 4. The scholarship, Ms Hanna explained, was paid for by teachers who opted to wear jeans on Fridays.

Teachers paid for the right to wear jeans on Fridays by donating to the scholarship fund, and Ms Hanna said $850 was raised for this year's scholarship. Students who are considering careers in education or psychology could apply for the scholarship.

"I want to be a teacher," said Danielle, just before Ms Hanna presented her with the check.

Danielle explained that since she was young, she was inspired by her teachers, like Middle Gate Elementary School fourth grade teacher Heidi Beauty.

A scholarship committee reviewed all of the applicants, and Ms Hanna said Danielle's "application was excellent."

Danielle plans to attend the University of Vermont, Burlington, in the fall, where she plans to study secondary mathematics education.