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K-12 Education

Ewing Marion Kauffman School graduates

We fund initiatives that are working to improve systemic enrollment patterns and growth of public K-12 options within the boundaries of the Kansas City Public School system.

Programs & Initiatives

Real World Learning

Real World Learning

We prioritize closing achievement and equity gaps, while also exploring the integration of Real World Learning approaches into the K-12 grant portfolio. Ultimately, we invest so that all students are prepared and graduate high school ready for college and/or career.


Individual Schools Grants Portfolio

The Individual Schools Grants Program supports improvement and enhancement efforts in Kansas City-area district, charter, and private schools that demonstrate proven or promising academic and life outcomes while serving a significant percentage of lower-income students. School leaders are invited to apply for a grant of up to $225,000 per year, which will support initiatives that take place within an individual school or set of schools.


Great Schools Visits

The Great Schools Visits trips inform critical community partners about regional and national approaches aligned with the Foundation funding priorities in education. Community members travel across the United States to see innovative education models in practice.


Kauffman School

The Ewing Marion Kauffman School is a mission-driven, college preparatory, free public charter school open to all students living in the Kansas City Public School District focused on student achievement and strong character.

SchoolSmartKC

Incubated at the Kauffman Foundation and now an independent organization, SchoolSmartKC works with schools, resource providers, and other key stakeholders on three key strategies to empower families: starting smart, investing for success, and demanding quality.