Donation was made possible by a generous gift from Mr. and Mrs. Rodger O. Riney in honor of retiring KHS Principal Dr. Michael Havener

On Thursday, March 9, 2023, the Kirkwood School District Foundation (KSDF) awarded a $5,000 grant to the Kirkwood High School (KHS) College Kickstart Program. KSDF representatives surprised grant applicant, Melinda Hall (KHS Social Worker), and her colleagues with the award during National School Social Work Week.

The College Kickstrart program at KHS assists graduates who might need assistance with essential supplies to start their first year in college. 

“We all know how expensive it is to send a child to college for the first time with heavy upfront expenses for various items such as bedding, electronics, clothing, personal care items, etc. The College Kickstart Program will help relieve this upfront burden and help our kids feel confident and comfortable as they begin their first semester at college,” said Hall. “There are enough new things to stress about in addition to the basics. This program will provide basics so they can focus on a positive integration into college life.”

This donation was made possible by a generous gift to KSDF from Mr. and Mrs. Rodger O. Riney, made in honor of retiring Principal Dr. Michael Havener and his years of dedication to Kirkwood students. Dr. Havener expressed his desire that a portion of these funds in his honor be directed to the KHS College Kickstart Program.

“Our hope is that this initial grant will provide this program a significant boost to help college-bound, KHS seniors start off on the right foot. KSDF will also consider granting funds to this cause annually as additional support is needed and our funds allow,” said Mary Loida, KSDF Board President.