The State of Kansas is beginning a program that will help students with learning recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Laura Kelly has announced the creation of the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP).
The program will provide qualifying parents and guardians with a one-time award of $1,000 per child to pay for educational goods and services, such as tutoring and school supplies. The program will begin taking applications on February 22nd, and businesses that provide educational materials or services are encouraged to join the KEEP Marketplace. Parents and guardians can choose activities from the online KEEP Marketplace or ask that a service provider be approved and added to the statewide directory.
Governor Kelly said the program will allow Kansas students to access the resources and support they need to thrive in the classroom.
Students whose household income is less than 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines will be eligible for KEEP funds. They can be used for several types of enrichment and educational activities:
- The purchase of curriculum and educational materials, including school supplies and certain allowed technological devices
- Camps with academic-related curriculum such as music, arts, science, technology, agriculture, mathematics, and engineering
- Tutoring
- Language classes
- Musical instruments and lessons
The funds cannot be used for private school tuition.
More information on how families can apply for, access and use their funds will be available later when the KEEP application process begins.
