Conference Committee On Senate Education And House K-12 Education Budget 04/04/2023 Part 1 Of 2

Greetings, dear readers and thought enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a journey through the halls of Kansas education, where exciting changes are in the air. This isn't your typical bureaucratic memo – it's a creative odyssey filled with positive vibes and transformative ideas. So fasten your seatbelts and let's dive into the fascinating world of the Keep Grant Program.

A Little Setback and a Glimpse of Hope

First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you for gracing us with your presence. Now, let's address the elephant in the room – we're down a reviser on the Senate side, as Tamara is on the path to regaining her health. We send her our best wishes. This minor hiccup has led to a bit of a slowdown in our conference committee meetings, but fret not; we're moving forward with our mission.

The Keep Grant Program Unveiled

Behold, the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (Keep), a transformative initiative that aims to enhance the educational prospects of low-income students in both public and non-public schools. The language of this program is evolving, and it's evolving for good.

The Keep Grant is a beacon of opportunity, offering students a one-time award of $1,000 if they are attending public schools. Parents play a pivotal role by completing a written agreement to access this grant. The eligibility criteria are set at 250 percent or less of the February federal poverty limit. And here's the kicker – it's a one-time award that students can carry with them throughout their educational journey, whether they're in elementary school or high school.

Unleashing the Power of Education

This grant isn't your typical one-trick pony. It's designed to empower students to invest in their education in diverse ways. Picture this: it can fund concurrent enrollment, making higher education more accessible. It can also support tutoring services, purchase or rent musical instruments, and even help with enrichment summer programs.

But that's not all; we're committed to addressing specific needs. Dyslexia, for instance, is now on our radar. Dr. David Herford, an expert from Pittsburg State University, recently shared a startling statistic – 34 percent of Kansas kids are reading deficient. The Keep Grant Program can be a beacon of hope for these students and their parents, offering them the support they need.

The Two Distinct Pathways

Now, for a twist in the tale! The Keep Grant Program is forging two distinct pathways. For students in non-public schools, there's a different route. They won't be eligible for the $1,000, but they have a shot at renewing their grants each year.

The language of this program is akin to what the house has voted on before, and we're aligning it with our goals and available funds. We're considering ARPA monies and will backfill with SGF.

Your Questions, Our Answers

Before we move forward, let's pause for a moment to address any burning questions you might have. After all, your curiosity fuels the engine of change.

You may wonder about the total sum in the Keep funds. Currently, it stands at approximately $47.3 million. Keep in mind that these funds must be expended by December 31st, 2024. A timeline is set, and we're committed to making the most of this opportunity.

We've also received inquiries about the duration of this initiative. It's been over 15 months since the governor first announced the $50 million for the Keep Program in January 2022. The journey to making this vision a reality is a meticulous one, and patience is key.

The Prohibitions and Future Directions

Section five is where the magic happens. It outlines the myriad uses of these funds, empowering students and parents to choose the educational avenues they wish to explore. However, it's important to note what these funds cannot be used for. Sporting goods, services including sports camps, and driver's education fees are off the table. The focus here is on academic enrichment, and we're dedicated to that cause.

In closing, we're here to embrace change and create an atmosphere where educational dreams can thrive. The Keep Grant Program is our beacon of hope, offering students and parents the chance to shape their own destiny.

Our commitment to addressing diverse needs, nurturing talent, and empowering the next generation remains unwavering. So, as we prepare for the next steps, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey of transformation in Kansas education.

Conclusion

Today, we've delved into a world of change, a vision of progress, and a commitment to empowering Kansas students. The Keep Grant Program isn't just another government initiative; it's a testament to our dedication to creating a brighter future for all. As we navigate these uncharted waters, we invite you to stay tuned, for the journey is only beginning, and the best is yet to come.

So, until next time, keep those dreams alive, and let's keep pushing for a better tomorrow. Stay curious, stay inspired, and keep the spirit of education alive.