Acute Scholars Program “A Year of Tutoring, A Lifetime of Learning” Investing in children’s futures through literacy, confidence, and community support.

The Hearts Behind the Acute Scholars Program

At Acute Heating & Cooling, we believe in keeping families comfortable — not just in their homes, but in their futures. That’s why we created the Acute Scholars Program – “A Year of Tutoring, A Lifetime of Learning.” 

This program is deeply personal to us. Growing up in a low-income, single-parent household, I (Octavia) struggled with literacy. I know what it feels like to sit in class and not understand grammar, to struggle with fluency, and to feel ashamed when you hope the teacher doesn’t call on you to read.

Those struggles left a mark, but as I grew older, I took my education into my own hands. I worked hard to improve my reading — and along the way, I was blessed with support from my teachers and, most importantly, from my husband, Thomas. That journey showed me how life-changing it can be when a child has the right people in their corner. With encouragement, guidance, and resources, confidence and success become possible.

Thomas and I both believe that strong communities are built by investing in children. The Acute Scholars Program is our way of giving that same support to students who may not otherwise have access to it. We want children in Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding areas to feel confident, encouraged, and equipped to succeed — not just for today, but for their entire future.

Each year, selected students will receive a full year of tutoring to help them in the areas where they need it most. For us, this isn’t just about academics — it’s about building confidence, creating opportunities, and planting seeds of lifelong success.

This is more than a holiday gift. It’s our promise to keep investing in the next generation, year after year.

— Octavia & Thomas Edwards
Owners, Acute Heating & Cooling

Continue Reading Read Less

The Power of Reading Changes Everything

  • Early Literacy Shapes Futures 
    Children who don’t learn to read by 3rd grade are 4x more likely to drop out of high school.
  • Confidence Starts with Reading
    Struggling readers often face low self-esteem, avoid class participation, and miss out on opportunities to build confidence.
  • The Poverty Connection
    Nearly 82% of children from low-income families are not reading at grade level by 4th grade.
  • Tutoring Works
    Consistent tutoring leads to 2–3 times more growth in reading and math compared to no tutoring support.
  • Community Impact
    Every child who becomes a confident reader is more likely to graduate, pursue higher education, and give back to their community.

Focused on Literacy and Confidence-Building

  • A full year of tutoring for selected students in grades 1–8.
  • Focus on literacy and building confidence in learning.
  • Priority for students from low-income households, single-parent families, or Title I schools.
  • Applications open Nov 1 – Nov 30, 2025.
  • Scholars announced Dec 19, 2025.

Apply or Nominate a Child

Working Together for Student Success

The Acute Scholars Program is made possible through collaboration with trusted tutoring partners who share our belief in the power of education. These partners provide the personalized support, encouragement, and academic guidance that help children thrive.

Are you an educator or tutor who wants to partner with us? Contact us to learn more.

More Than a Holiday Gift – A Promise to Our Community

Every child deserves the chance to succeed—and sometimes, all it takes is a little extra support and encouragement to change their path. This program was created to give students the confidence, tools, and opportunities they need to thrive.

“I know what it feels like to struggle in class. This program is my way of making sure children get the support I once needed.” — Octavia

“Investing in children means investing in the future of our community. That’s why this program matters so much to us.” — Thomas

Together, we’re not just giving, it’s a lasting promise to uplift, inspire, and build a brighter tomorrow for every child.

Together We Can Change Futures

Join us in empowering the next generation! We invite families, teachers, and mentors to nominate a student who shows promise, determination, or a passion for learning. Help us spread the word—share this opportunity with your community, clients, and friends so more deserving students can benefit.

Apply or Nominate a Child

Contact Acute Heating & Cooling Today!

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

    Student Information
  • Please enter student first name.
  • Please enter student last name.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter student last name.
  • Please enter student last name.
  • Parent/Guardian Information
  • Please enter Parent/Guardian first name.
  • Please enter Parent/Guardian last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please lookup your address.
  • Nominee Questions
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • Please check all that apply to the student being nominated (optional):

    Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • Note: Checking a box is optional, but it helps us ensure this program reaches students with the greatest need. If none of these apply, but the student is facing other challenges (ex: recent family crisis, learning struggles, or other barriers), please feel free to share in your nomination response above.

    Commitment Agreement
    Please make a selection.
  • Signature & Consent

    If you are the Parent/Guardian submitting this application

  • Please enter Parent/Guardian first name.
  • Please enter Parent/Guardian last name.
  • If you are the Teacher/Mentor submitting this application, please provide the parent/guardian’s contact information. By submitting this form, you confirm that the parent/guardian has given you consent to share their contact details with us and for Acute Heating & Cooling to reach out to them directly to obtain final consent before final selection.

  • Please enter Parent/Guardian first name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Acute Heating & Cooling at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy