Kentucky students have something wonderful to look forward to as state representatives work to make college more accessible than ever. On Wednesday, lawmakers introduced an inspiring bill that would modernize the Kentucky Education Excellence Scholarship, known as KEES, ensuring it continues to be the lifeline it was designed to be when created in 1998.

State Representatives Chad Aull and Deanna Gordon are leading this compassionate effort to adjust scholarship amounts based on inflation, recognizing that what helped students nearly three decades ago needs updating to truly support today's learners. The bill would require the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority to use the Consumer Price Index to keep awards current with actual costs, and here's the best part: it would prohibit any decreases in scholarship amounts.

The KEES program has already transformed countless lives by rewarding academic achievement. Students who maintain at least a 2.5 GPA throughout high school earn scholarship money, with higher grades bringing greater rewards. Currently, students can accumulate between $500 and $2,000 based on their grades, plus additional bonuses ranging from $36 to $500 depending on ACT or SAT scores. These awards are distributed annually during their time at Kentucky universities, with a potential maximum of $10,000.

Ryan Marchetti, Supervisor of Instruction at Calloway County Schools, expressed genuine enthusiasm about what this means for Kentucky's young people. "It means a lot for our kids," he shared warmly. "We know that college tuition is expensive and our kids need any kind of help they can get. For our students to get $1,000 or $2,000 or even up to $2,500 for each year that they're in college is a remarkable help for them."

Marchetti touched on an important reality: a $500 scholarship in 1998 simply doesn't stretch as far in 2026. With college costs rising steadily over the past three decades, this thoughtful update ensures Kentucky's commitment to education stays strong and meaningful.

The Ripple Effect

This legislation represents more than just increased dollar amounts. It demonstrates Kentucky's ongoing dedication to investing in its young people and their futures. By adjusting for inflation, lawmakers are ensuring that the promise made to students nearly 30 years ago remains just as powerful today.

Marchetti offered encouraging words to current high school students: "Make it a priority to do well in high school, because it pays off once you get to college." He acknowledged that staying motivated can be challenging, but emphasized that the effort truly makes a difference. Every assignment completed, every day of attendance, and every grade earned translates directly into financial support for their educational dreams.

The supervisor also had uplifting advice for families: stay involved, check grades regularly, and remember that students begin earning scholarship dollars from their freshman year. For college-bound students or those heading to technical schools, this early start can make post-secondary education significantly more achievable.

As Kentucky continues to support its KEES program through funding and thoughtful updates like this bill, thousands of students will benefit from the state's investment in their success. It's a beautiful reminder that when communities prioritize education and adapt programs to meet current needs, everyone wins.