Richmond, KY, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Congressman Andy Barr has announced a federal grant of $900,360 to support the Kentucky Education Development Corporation. The funding will enhance educational opportunities for underserved students in rural areas across 27 schools in 12 districts, focusing on academic performance, graduation rates, and college preparedness. With initiatives planned for the next seven years, this initiative aims to foster community engagement and collaboration to ensure student success.
Richmond, KY – Congressman Andy Barr Announces $900,360 Federal Grant for Kentucky Education Development Corporation to Support Rural Students
U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) has announced a significant federal grant of $900,360 awarded to the Kentucky Education Development Corporation (KEDC). This funding comes through the U.S. Department of Education’s GEAR UP Elevate initiative, which focuses on improving postsecondary access and success for underserved students across the nation.
The GEAR UP Elevate initiative is a comprehensive seven-year federal program designed to enhance educational opportunities for students in rural and high-poverty communities. Specifically, this grant will support students in 27 schools across 12 school districts within Kentucky, aiming to boost academic performance, high school graduation rates, and overall college-going outcomes.
Congressman Barr has expressed his support for KEDC, having previously written a letter endorsing their grant application. He emphasized KEDC’s impressive 60-year history of positively impacting generations of students in Kentucky. The Congressman acknowledged the critical importance of mentorship and resources for students, particularly those in challenging circumstances.
Nancy Hutchinson, the CEO of KEDC, also expressed enthusiasm about the grant, noting that it will not only empower students but also strengthen educational communities throughout the state over the next seven years. The initiative is set to implement various services tailored towards student success, including academic support, college readiness programs, family engagement activities, early intervention strategies, and professional development for educators.
The participating districts benefiting from this program include Bourbon, Boyd, Harrison, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Nicholas, Rockcastle, and Rowan counties. These communities are expected to see significant benefits as the GEAR UP Elevate initiative unfolds, providing essential support to their students.
Background on the GEAR UP Initiative
The GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) initiative aims to prepare low-income students for success in postsecondary education. It focuses on increasing college attendance and completion rates, ensuring that students from underprivileged backgrounds have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and transition smoothly to higher education. With this significant federal grant, KEDC is set to play a vital role in achieving these goals for many students in Kentucky.
Impact on Local Communities
This grant is expected to have a profound impact on students and families in the targeted districts. Services provided through KEDC and its partnerships will not only improve academic outcomes but also foster a sense of community and collaboration between schools, students, and families. By enhancing educational resources and opportunities, KEDC aims to create a supportive environment that encourages students to stay engaged in their education and aspire to higher academic achievements.
Future Initiatives
As the program progresses, KEDC plans to implement a series of initiatives designed to maximize the effectiveness of the grant. These will include workshops for students and families, seminars for educators, and various academic resources to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of higher education. The focus will remain on equitable access to educational opportunities, especially for those from underserved areas.
Conclusion
This federal grant is a monumental step forward for KEDC and the communities it serves, representing a commitment to enhancing the educational experiences for Kentucky’s rural and underserved students. With the considerable support from Congressman Barr and the Department of Education, KEDC will be poised to effect lasting change in the educational landscape of Kentucky.
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of the federal grant announced by Congressman Andy Barr?
The grant of $900,360 is intended to support the Kentucky Education Development Corporation in enhancing educational opportunities for underserved students in rural and high-poverty communities through the GEAR UP Elevate initiative.
How long is the GEAR UP Elevate initiative funded for?
The GEAR UP Elevate initiative is a seven-year federal program aimed at increasing postsecondary access and success for students.
Which districts will benefit from the KEDC grant?
The grant will benefit students in 27 schools across 12 districts, including Bourbon, Boyd, Harrison, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Nicholas, Rockcastle, and Rowan counties.
What services will be provided through the GEAR UP Elevate initiative?
The initiative will offer a variety of services, including academic support, college readiness programs, family engagement activities, early intervention strategies, and professional development for educators.
Key Features of the GEAR UP Elevate Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Grant Amount | $900,360 |
| Duration | Seven years |
| Target Population | Underserved students in rural and high-poverty communities |
| Number of Schools | 27 schools |
| Number of Districts | 12 districts |
| Key Services | Academic support, college readiness, family engagement, early intervention, professional development |
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Additional Resources
- Lane Report: Kentucky Education Development Corporation Awarded $900,000 Federal Grant
- Google Search: Kentucky Education Development Corporation
- WTVQ: More Than $20 Million in Federal Funding for Schools in Kentucky
- Wikipedia: Kentucky Education Development Corporation
- WNKY: Barr: $20M Federal Grant Awarded to Kentucky Education Development Corporation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in Kentucky
- Kentucky.com: Op-Ed on Education Initiatives
- Google News: Kentucky Federal Grants
- NKY Tribune: Holmes High School Student Named GEAR UP Kentucky Student of the Year
- Google Scholar: GEAR UP Kentucky
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