Need-Based Aid for Students

Every student deserves to start the school year, ready to learn. For the families of some of the students, purchasing new school supplies is a true financial hardship. The Olathe Public Schools Foundation provides filled backpacks to all Olathe schools, for distribution to students who need this help. School administrators or counselors access this program though the OPSF office. If your child is in need of a backpack and school supplies, contact their school directly.

Learn more about the OSF Backpack and School Supply Program. 

This fund provides bridge funding so any student who needs to seek help from a mental health professional is not turned away due to an inability to pay. School counselors, social workers, and administrators access this support through Scott Fluke, director of SEL and mental health. The annual Taste of the Town raises funds to support student mental health and wellness. 

Many Olathe families struggle financially but are not eligible to receive meal benefits. There are no provisions for making exceptions based on unusual household circumstances, such as high medical expenditures, etc. The Families in Need Fund ensures all students receive the nutrition they need to grow and do well in school. School administrators access this support through Lori Carpenter in Food Services. Families in need of assistance should speak with their home school(s) directly.

For some students, music provides motivation to go to school every day. Musical instruments are purchased to increase the district’s loaned instrument program. Instrumental music teachers can access this support through the school district’s Fine Arts Coordinator Martha Gabel. Donations to this fund support the repair of donated instruments. Instruments may be dropped off at the Instructional Resource Center, 14090 S. Black Bob Rd. 

Throughout the year the school district works with families in transition as part of the federal mandate that public schools provide certain accommodations for students who do not have a permanent residence. This fund helps provide basic needs for Olathe students living in poverty. School administrators or counselors can access this support by sending an e-mail to Heather Schoonover, homeless liaison.

Throughout the year the school district works with coaches to make sure all students who want to participate in district-affiliated athletic programs have the resources needed. This fund pays for shoes, uniforms, physicals, and equipment that students are normally expected to pay for.

Middle or high school athletic directors or elementary counselors/administrators can access this support through Cindy VonFeldt, OPSF executive director.

The Student Health Emergency Fund serves students in need of medical care or supplies with the goal of returning them to school as quickly as possible. The fund helps with everything from fees to walk-in clinics to medications to assistance with items like hearing aids, eyeglasses, and dental restorative care. School nurses can access this support through the Student Health Office.

Funds are disbursed to students and their families in times of special need to minimize the impact on students and keep them in school. Great importance is placed on flexibility, with the superintendent having control of the fund. School administrators or counselors can access this support by sending an e-mail to the superintendent and copying Barbara Behm, Heather Schoonover and Cindy VonFeldt.

By making a $10 minimum donation to the Wimmer Student Care Fund, you will receive a set of student note cards featuring the artwork of six Olathe student artists.