The class of 2016 at Milwaukee Public Schools shattered last year's scholarship record - and it's becoming an annual trend.
The graduating class this year earned nearly $48 million in scholarship money.
Dr. Darienne Driver, the superintendent of MPS says, "its personal for me. I went to college on a scholarship, understanding that is the key to getting your foot in the door to go to the top schools in our country."
In 2012, seniors were awarded $17 million. The following year, that number jumped up to $24 million. In 2014, the number went even higher -- $31 million. Last year, another record set: Nearly $39 million.
Winning students are heading to schools from coast to coast, but some will stay close to home. Brian Diggs is graduating from Audubon High School. He says, "in-state tuition is cheaper than out of state so I chose to do that, and overall its a better experience. I wont be homesick."
Elijah Evers is graduating from Riverside University High School. He says, "it will be nervous, but fun to meet new people and get a new experience."
Evers is just one of the headliners of this year's class. He's the valedictorian at Riverside and is heading to the Airforce Academy in Colorado. He earned more than $1 million in scholarships.
"It's always fun to see the money go up. It's nice to know my college is paid for and I don't have to worry about that," says Evers.
A lot of these seniors are going to college on full rides - young adults chasing their dreams.