Barr Announces over $900,000 Federal Grant to Kentucky Education Development Corporation

Lexington, Kentucky- Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) announced a major, $900,360 federal grant to the Kentucky Education Development Corporation (KEDC). This grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Education's GEAR UP Elevate grant, a seven-year federal initiative designed to expand postsecondary access and success for underserved students in rural, high-poverty communities.

Through the Elevate project, KEDC and its partners will serve students across 27 schools in 12 districts, providing critical support to strengthen academic performance, high school graduation, and college-going outcomes.

"For 60 years, KEDC has helped shape future generations of Kentuckians," said Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY), who wrote a letter of support for the grant application. "This federal award will strengthen their work by expanding mentorship, guidance, and resources for students in need across our Commonwealth. I especially want to thank CEO Nancy Hutchinson and her entire team for their dedication to putting the GEAR UP grant to work for Kentucky students, including those in Bourbon and Nicholas Counties right here in the Sixth District."

"We are thrilled to receive the GEAR UP Elevate Grant, which will empower students across 12 districts and 22 schools over the next seven years - providing academic support, fostering college readiness and awareness, engaging families, intervening early, and bolstering professional development. This initiative will transform lives and strengthen our educational communities," said Nancy Hutchinson, CEO of KEDC.

More about the project goals, ELEVATE services, and participating counties in Kentucky is below:

Project Goals:

• Increase academic performance and preparation for postsecondary education
• Boost high school graduation and college enrollment rates
• Expand student and family knowledge of college options, preparation, and financial aid

ELEVATE Services:

• Academic support and college readiness programs
• College awareness and preparation experiences
• Financial literacy education
• Parent and family engagement opportunities
• Early intervention and student support services
• Professional development for educators

Participating Districts: Bourbon, Boyd, Harrison, Johnson, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Nicholas, Rockcastle, and Rowan Counties.