Delta Charter High School senior Natasha Young received a surprise Monday afternoon in the school’s office, as she was awarded a $44,000 scholarship at Notre Dame de Namur University, the largest offered to a Delta student in the school’s history. 

An emotional Young was surprised by her parents, Rachel and C. Thomas Young, in the school’s office to share the news. 

“This is really special for a really special young woman,” said Jeff Tilton, Superintendent, Charter Schools. “If you knew her story and journey, it would be easy to understand why she was recognized. She really symbolizes the spirit of Delta.” 

Young, who lives in San Joaquin River City south of Manteca,  earned her $11,000 annual Belmont Scholarship based on her academic achievement at Delta. She is the current Associated Student Body President, captain of the Speech and Debate Team and recently qualified for the California State Speech and Debate Tournament, where she currently leads her region in total points earned this year. 

“Natasha has worked very hard the past four years and Notre Dame de Namur is the perfect fit for her,” said Shelby Smith, Delta’s academic counselor. 

Young, who is a pioneer of Delta’s four-year old eCALL (Early College of Leadership and Law Academy), has volunteered at Sutter Tracy Hospital the past three years in the Emergency Room. In addition, Young volunteers at Delta Charter Schools program office. She has also completed three college courses at Grand Canyon University and San Joaquin Delta College. 

Delta Charter School is one of five Delta Charter Schools authorized by New Jerusalem Elementary School District.