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GREENSBORO – Just like every other year, thousands of area students are making the transition from high school student to graduate.

But because the economy has changed, more and more students are now relying on scholarships to make it to the next level.

"As we go into much more difficult economic times, these opportunities will make the difference for some people who perhaps would be able to go off to college, university," said GCS Superintendent Mo Green.

And at a time when the Guilford County School system is facing unprecedented budget cuts, students are getting an extra boost of financial support for their hard work. This year the district's senior class was awarded nearly $79 million dollars in scholarships, up almost $2 million from last year.

"They are demonstrating excellence in academics, character, in athletics, the arts, trade skills and many, many other areas," said Green

Scholarship recipients include students who will be attending all types of schools. Grimsley High senior Elizabeth Rodenbough is one of just three presidential scholars in the state.

"The first round of selection is based on SAT scores, and that's definitely a direct result of my education in Guilford County schools," said Rodenbough.

Northwest Guilford senior Kevin Kane received more than $200,000 in scholarship offers and will attend the Maryland Art Institute in the fall.

"I got half of it from having good grades and being in seven AP classes in high school and then I have half of it from just being a good artist as well," said Kane.

Now those students will take what they've gained while in school and use it to further their educations.

"Weaver [Academy] has just opened me up to so many things that I'm really excited to see what catches me and what pulls me to, what I'll be in the future," said senior Aalex Koceja.