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Spotlight on Inspiration Scholar: Esiah from Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Inspiration Scholars for the Class of 2030.

The Catholic Schools Foundation (CSF) proudly congratulates and celebrates Esiah of Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy in Dorchester on being named one of the High School Inspiration Scholars for the Class of 2030.

The Inspiration Scholarship is CSF’s most competitive merit- and need-based scholarship program, providing four years of support for outstanding students to attend an area Catholic high school. Scholars are selected not only for their academic excellence, but also for their leadership, service, and strong moral character.

Principal Lisa Warshafsky describes Esiah as insightful, resourceful, and astute—three words that perfectly capture her character and intellect. “Esiah is a self-motivated and disciplined scholar who consistently exceeds academic expectations,” Principal Warshafsky shared. “She displays high growth and achievement in the classroom and through her coursework as well as standardized testing.”

Esiah’s leadership within her school is marked by wisdom beyond her years. “She brings an insightful level of verbal articulation that is far beyond her peers,” her principal continued. “She helps others problem-solve and uses her strong executive function and leadership skills to find solutions in advance to potential pitfalls. I feel strongly that this is a superpower for a young person that will have a lasting impact.”

In addition to her academic achievements, Esiah is an active member of Student Council, the Girls Volleyball Team, Authors’ Café, and the Girls Empowerment Group—all of which allow her to express her creativity, leadership, and passion for community.

One of Esiah’s favorite books is The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera, a story that explores the power of storytelling and heritage. She was especially inspired by Lita, the protagonist’s grandmother, who remained behind on Earth when others fled to a new planet. “Lita stood firm on her principles of storytelling,” Esiah reflected, “and inspired her granddaughter to adapt fables to new circumstances, embodying the importance of origin and heritage.”

This connection to storytelling reflects Esiah’s own deep appreciation for her roots, family, and the lessons passed down through generations.

Looking Ahead to High School

After spending most of her academic career at Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy’s Lower Mills Campus, Esiah is ready to embrace new experiences. “High school will provide me with new walls and fresh faces,” she shared. “I get to expand my horizons and branch out to perform tasks I’m not comfortable with. I can take more chances and truly understand who Esiah is and who she wants to become.”

She’s also eager to continue growing as an athlete. “Every time I set foot onto a volleyball court, I feel overwhelmed with happiness and suspense,” she said. “I can’t wait to continue playing and improving in high school.”

After college, Esiah envisions a future rooted in service and exploration. She hopes to pursue a career as a pediatric nurse practitioner or ultrasound technician, combining her love of science and helping others. She dreams of traveling the world—especially to South America and Europe—to experience new cultures, learn new languages, and give back to those in need.

“Life always provides you with obstacles along the way,” she said. “But as long as I have God by my side to guide me, I am going to be successful.”

The Catholic Schools Foundation is honored to support students like Esiah—brilliant, compassionate, and determined young leaders who embody the true spirit of the Inspiration Scholarship. Congratulations, Esiah, on this incredible achievement and the bright journey ahead!