Education Foundation Supports Keota Seniors

KEOTA – Despite a year where seniors saw no normalcy in the final months of their senior year, thanks to the Keota Education Foundation 11 Keota seniors are able to continue their secondary education. In fact, in the past 26 years more than 500 students have received scholarships from the Foundation.

Keota Education Foundation has several avenues from which they receive funds but it comes down to the patrons of the district who provide that needed support. As of this past year the Foundation has contributed $324,745 to students for scholarships. One of the visible avenues of funding comes through purchases of bricks on the Friends of Education Wall at Keota High School.

According to Foundation President Rita Sheetz the brick wall allows sponsors to purchase a brick for $150 in their name, their child or children’s name, graduating class or in memory of a loved one.

“I have a brick with my kids’ names on it,” said Sheetz. “I just think others may be interested in donating to the wall. We have several classes that have bought bricks but it is a way to honor or memorialize someone.”

As mentioned before the Keota Education Foundation has several options for individuals, groups or companies to participate and support future applicants. Besides the brick wall one may join the 480 club. This club allows a member to pledge $480 using one of three payment options. The pledge may be made in one payment; payment of $120 annually for four years; or a $10 monthly payment for 48 months. Payments can be made through automatic debit.

Several families or groups have established an endowment to honor a loved one and provide ongoing support for Keota seniors who meet the Foundation’s application requirements. The Foundation has a direct relationship with Powell Funeral Homes and Cremation Services to ensure the family’s wishes are met. Memorial envelopes are available at the funeral home.

KEF and Lagos Acres Country Club have teamed for many years on a golf tournament. Even in 2020 it was a question whether the event could take place. The tournament fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday, June 6. All proceeds from this event goes directly into the community scholarship fund.

Information on the Keota Education Foundation may be obtained by going to the Keota School website at www.keota.k12.ia.us then go to the menu in the upper left hand corner then scroll down to the Keota Education Foundation link.

“We meet with the seniors so most should know about the scholarships and the application process,” said Sheetz. “The application is on our information page. There is also information our Facebook page.”

According to the KEF page the application for the 2021 scholarships is due at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, March 5.