KEEP provides $1,000 to qualifying Kansas families for education expenses

Studies show the pandemic had a negative impact on student learning. The Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) is trying to mitigate that impact by giving $1,000 awards to each eligible student.

Parents and guardians in Kansas with students ages 5 to 18 (K-12) and whose income is 300% or less of the federal poverty guidelines ($90,000 for a four-person household) can enroll each of their eligible children in the program.

These awards can be used to purchase approved educational services and supplies through participating providers, including:

• School supplies and various technology (one laptop or tablet per student)
• Tutoring services
• Clubs, camps, or after-school classes related to academic or school curriculum
• Language classes
• Instrument and vocal lessons, including instrument purchase or rental
• Other non-credit classes

Some expenses, such as tuition, school fees, smartphones, sporting goods and field trip fees are not eligible.

Children already enrolled in SNAP/FDPIR automatically qualify for the award, and foster children are exempt from the income limits.

Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The program is nearing capacity, so officials recommend applying soon. When enough applications to award all funding have been received, additional applicants will only be reviewed if funding remains available. Those who qualify will receive further communication from Merit International, Inc. notifying them of their beneficiary status.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced the program in January to help families recover missed learning opportunities during the pandemic. Funding is awarded through the state’s portion of the American Rescue Plan Act’s Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund.

The application and further details can be found at KEEP.ks.gov.