Bailey Simons/Frank Family Memorial Scholarship
Bailey Simons was remarkable for her magnetic, outgoing personality and her willingness to put other
people’s needs ahead of her own. She was a junior at Rootstown High School, and a member of the
Rovers cheerleading team. She enjoyed gymnastics from the time she was a little girl. She became a
coach for Top Floor Gymnastics & Dance Center in Ravenna, where her students called her “Miss Bailey”.
She was a talented young lady who left an impression on many hearts through her enthusiasm, uplifting
spirit, bright blue eyes and beautiful smile. A close friend commented, “She just knew how to bring out a
smile in everybody. That’s what she was best at.”
Bailey was killed at the age of 17 in a car accident on a snow-covered road on February 14, 2015. Her
tragic death rocked the community, brought people to tears and brought them together at vigils,
services, basketball games and gymnastics events where crowds honored her by wearing purple, Bailey’s
favorite color.
Her memory and spirit live on in the lives of all those who knew and loved her, as well as those who
learn about her legacy. Her school involvement and volunteerism both in school and in the community
will continue to be an inspiration to all. Bailey will continue to inspire and lead students for many years
to come, thanks to a scholarship that her family has established in her memory.
Criteria
Applicant must be a graduating senior from Ravenna High School.
- Applicant must be enrolled in a two or four-year degree program at an accredited college,
university or technical school to receive the scholarship award. - Applicant must submit a 500-word essay describing how they demonstrate any or all of the following characteristics in their life:
- Leadership
- Strength
- Compassion
- Mentoring
- Community involvement and volunteerism
- The applicant should also answer the question, “Why should we choose you for this
scholarship?”
