The educational landscape constantly evolves, with parents seeking more control and flexibility in their children's learning journeys. Several states have implemented Educational Scholarship Account (ESA) programs in response to this growing desire. Kansas joined this movement with the launch of the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) in February 2023.
What is the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP)?
The Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) supports Kansas families and children recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on learning. KEEP awards qualifying parents and guardians $1,000 per eligible student to pay for different educational goods and services to promote educational learning recovery and facilitate academic enrichment opportunities.
A Glimpse into KEEP's Philosophy
KEEP's core philosophy is empowering families to personalize their child's education. By providing financial assistance through ESA accounts, the program aims to broaden educational opportunities beyond the traditional classroom setting. This allows families to explore diverse learning options, fostering a more customized and engaging experience for their children.
Who is Eligible for KEEP?
The beauty of KEEP lies in its accessibility. Virtually all K-12 students who are Kansas residents qualify for the program, regardless of:
- Age requirement: KEEP is available for students who are between 5 and 18 years of age. It is also available for students above the age of 18 who are still in high school, with proof of active school enrollment in K-12 program.
- Household income: There are no income restrictions for participation.
- Academic performance: Students of all academic levels are welcome.
- Previous school enrollment: KEEP is open to students currently enrolled in public schools, private schools, or homeschooling programs.
What Expenses Can Be Covered by KEEP?
KEEP funds can be used for a variety of approved educational expenses for Kansas children, including:
- Private school tuition: This allows families to explore alternative schooling options that might better suit their child's individual needs and learning style.
- Homeschooling curriculum and materials: KEEP empowers families to customize their homeschooling experience with high-quality resources.
- Online learning programs: This opens doors to a vast array of online educational platforms, offering flexibility and personalized learning pathways.
- Educational therapies: Students with special needs can utilize KEEP funds to access specialized therapies, promoting their academic and social development.
- Tutoring services: KEEP provides an avenue for personalized academic support, helping students excel in specific subjects or bridge any learning gaps. This can also be called as one-on-one tutoring.
- Uniforms: For students attending private schools with uniform requirements, KEEP funds can help cover the cost of uniforms.
- Fees for standardized testing: Standardized assessments can play a role in educational evaluation. KEEP allows families to utilize funds for approved standardized testing fees.
Important Note:
It's crucial to understand that KEEP funds cannot be used for certain expenses, such as:
- Extracurricular activities: These are typically funded through separate channels within schools or organizations.
- Religious instruction outside the secular curriculum: KEEP maintains a commitment to secular education.
- For-profit educational materials promoting a particular religion: KEEP ensures educational resources are aligned with broader educational objectives.
Advantages of Participating in KEEP
Here are some key advantages of participating in the program:
- No application or participation fee
- You can apply all your students in your household. If your household has more than one eligible student, you can receive multiple grants to maximize the impact on education.
- KEEP provides an online marketplace with pre-approved service provides. This offers a convenient way for families to use their awarded funds.
- You can use awards on classes, tutoring, school supplies, technology, and even camps!
Benefits of Participating in KEEP
There are numerous advantages to participating in the KEEP program:
- Personalized Learning: KEEP empowers families to tailor their child's education to their specific needs and learning preferences.
- Increased Educational Options: The program opens doors to a wider range of educational opportunities beyond the confines of traditional public schools.
- Financial Assistance: KEEP provides financial aid to families, making private school tuition, homeschooling materials, and other approved expenses more accessible.
- Flexibility and Control: Families gain greater control over their child's educational journey, fostering a more active role in their learning.
- Potential for Improved Student Outcomes: Studies have shown that students in similar ESA programs often experience improved academic achievement due to personalized learning environments.
Applying for KEEP: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for KEEP is designed to be straightforward and accessible. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:
- Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have the necessary documentation for yourself and your child, including birth certificates, proof of residency, and any relevant documentation for special needs (if applicable).
- Visit the KEEP Website: The official KEEP website serves as the central hub for program information and applications.
- Create an Online Account: Register for an online account on the KEEP website to initiate the application process.
- Complete the Application Form: The application is designed to be user-friendly and should take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. It will ask for details about your child, your educational preferences, and the intended use of KEEP funds.
- Submit Your Application: Once you've reviewed and finalized your application, submit it electronically through the KEEP website.
- Wait for Notification: The KEEP program aims to process applications within 30 days. You will receive an email notification regarding the decision on your application.
Note: For the latest information about the application process, go to the KEEP website. Here, you can find the timestamp of submission of a complete application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between the online KEEP Marketplace and the KEEP Claims app?
A: The KEEP Marketplace is an online platform to search for Qualified Education Service Providers with whom they can use their students’ program funds. On the other hand, the KEEP Claims app is an application used by parents and guardians to submit claims for the item(s) or service(s) they would like to use the funds.
Q: Who is Merit International, Inc.?
A: Merit is a partner of Kansas that administers the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP).
Q: How are scholarship amounts determined?
A: If eligible, the scholarship amount is $1,000 per eligible student.
Your application will be reviewed and awarded to be received on a rolling basis.
The first round of awards is based on applicants whose income is 300% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Here is the chart to determine your eligibility:
Image Source: Kansas KEEP - Kansas Education Enrichment Program
Q: What are the required documents I need to submit?
A: You must provide the following documents:
- One of the following documents to prove Kansas Residency
- Current Kansas Driver's License or ID renewal postcard
- Current Kansas vehicle registration
- Utility bill or equivalent no more than two months old
- Financial institution documents such as a bank statement, deed, or mortgage with a current Kansas address
- Rent or lease agreement dated within the last 12 months
- Kansas Voter Registration Card
- Documents to prove school enrollment for the child if your child is over 18 and still enrolled in a K-12 program in Kansas
- Copies of the first two pages of your IRS Form 1040 (to check income eligibility). - to check your income to determine eligibility
- A copy of the Placement Agreement document - if your student is in foster care
- Parents/Guardians who are actively receiving SNAP benefits:
- Parents/Guardians must provide their SNAP award letter.
- They also need to provide proof of their relationship to the student with one of the following documents:
- The first two pages of their 2021 or 2022 Form 1040 (most recent). If they have more than 4 dependents, then they must include the statement or attachment of dependents.
- An adoption decree
- A custody decree
- An affidavit of guardianship
Q: How do I know if I’m awarded as a KEEP beneficiary?
A: KEEP will send you an email to let you know if your application has been approved within two weeks of your application. Make sure that your email box is not full.
KEEP will give you accounts and access to the online education marketplace to purchase allowable services and materials.
Q: Where can I use my funding?
A: Your funds can be used for:
- Day and overnight camps with academic-related curriculum such as music, arts, science, technology, agriculture, mathematics, and engineering
- The purchase of curriculum and educational materials, including certain allowed technological devices
- Language classes
- Music lessons and instruments
- Tutoring
- Other variety of educational goods
Reimbursement Procedure
Once you submit your claims, the service provider will review and verify it.
Log into the KEEP app to see details about your funds.
- Available Status: The available funds that can be submitted for reimbursement.
- Pending Status: The amount of funds that have been submitted and are currently being reviewed.
- Spent Status: The amount of funds that have been approved. Once the funds are “spent, " it can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to disburse funds.
Claims are processed in the order that they are received. Allow more than 8 weeks for reimbursement of eligible claims. (Holidays and high claim volumes may delay claim processing time).
Empower Your Child's Learning Journey with KEEP and The Landmark Kids
The Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) provides valuable funds to support your child's education. Combine the power of KEEP with the engaging learning experiences offered by The Landmark Kids for a dynamic educational journey.
The Landmark Kids subscription box is more than just fun; it's an immersive learning experience that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and global awareness. Each month, your child becomes a globetrotter, solving mysteries and exploring different cultures. This aligns perfectly with the goals of KEEP, which aims to enrich students' education.
By using KEEP funds for The Landmark Kids, you're investing in your child's future. The subscription offers:
- Hands-on Learning: Engaging activities that bring learning to life.
- Global Awareness: Exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives.
- Critical Thinking: Solving puzzles and mysteries develops problem-solving skills.
Let The Landmark Kids be your child's passport to a world of knowledge and adventure. Use your KEEP funds wisely and unlock a future full of possibilities.
Additional information
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