FAQ

iBelieve Staff Frequently Asked Questions

What is the iBelieve Campaign?

iBelieve is an internal giving campaign that brings KCKPS employees and community supporters together to invest in our students, educators, staff, schools, and district programs. Contributions are managed by the Kansas City, Kansas School Foundation for Excellence and used to support meaningful needs and opportunities throughout KCKPS.

Why was iBelieve created?

The campaign was created to help fill gaps that can prevent students, staff, or schools from accessing important resources and opportunities. Sometimes a relatively small need—such as a cap and gown, classroom materials, or assistance participating in an educational experience—can make a significant difference.

iBelieve allows us to come together and do more than any one person could do alone.

Who can submit a request for iBelieve funding?

Requests should be submitted by a KCKPS employee who can clearly explain:

• What is being requested
• Why is the support needed
• Who will benefit
• How the funds will be used
• What will be different because of the funding

What can iBelieve funds support?

Requests must provide a clear benefit in one or more of the following areas:

• Students: Removing barriers, improving student experiences, or creating opportunities for success
• Teachers and staff: Providing classroom resources or supporting employees as they directly serve students
• Buildings and schools: Enhancing school environments or creating opportunities for students and staff
• District programs and departments: Strengthening programs and services that support KCKPS students and employees

Examples may include classroom projects, educational experiences, field trips, leadership opportunities, school resources, student needs, or support during unexpected circumstances.

The Foundation may contact the requester or an appropriate KCKPS administrator if additional information is needed.

When can I submit a request?

Requests are accepted during four quarterly application windows:

You may submit your application at any time during an open request window.

How are funding decisions made?

The Foundation reviews requests based on:

• The need being addressed
• The expected impact
• Alignment with the purpose of iBelieve
• The number of students, employees, classrooms, schools, or departments served
• Whether the proposal can reasonably be completed
• The amount of funding available
• The number of requests received

Submitting an application does not guarantee that funding will be awarded.

When will I receive a decision?

Requests will be reviewed following the applicable request window. Applicants will be notified after the review process is complete.

Can my request be partially funded?

Yes. If the Foundation cannot fund the entire request, it may consider funding a portion of it. Applicants should include a detailed budget with all items, quantities, and estimated costs so the Foundation can determine whether partial funding is possible.

When must approved funds be used?

Approved projects should generally be completed within the corresponding three-month funding period unless the Foundation provides prior approval for an alternative timeline.

Do I have to participate in iBelieve to request funding?

Participation in the iBelieve Campaign will be considered as part of the request-review process. The campaign is built on shared investment and the belief that, when we work together, we can create a greater impact throughout KCKPS.

Employees who are not currently participating are encouraged to join.

How can KCKPS employees contribute?

Employees may participate through payroll deduction. Even a contribution of $5 contribution per pay period can make a meaningful difference when we give together. One-time and recurring contributions may also be made through the Foundation’s iBelieve giving page.

Will my contribution remain at my school or department?

iBelieve contributions are combined to support needs and opportunities throughout the KCKPS community. Funding decisions are based on demonstrated need, potential impact, alignment with the campaign, and available resources.

What information will I need for the application?

Be prepared to provide:

• Your school, building, or department
• A project or program title
• A description of your proposed request
• The people who will benefit
• The need or problem being addressed
• The expected impact
• The number of people, classrooms, schools, or departments affected
• A detailed budget
• How will you determine whether the project was successful
• Your current iBelieve participation status

Can I ask for help before submitting?

Yes. We want applicants to be successful. If you are unsure whether your idea is eligible, need help preparing your budget, or would like to discuss your request before submitting, please contact the Kansas City, Kansas School Foundation for Excellence.

Payroll Deduction:

• $5 per pay period: Receive a T-shirt.
• $20 or more per pay period: Receive a T-shirt and a water bottle.
  • T-Shirt Colors: Red, Navy Blue, Teal, Yellow/Gold

One-Time Donation:

• $25: Receive a T-shirt.
• $50 or more: Receive a T-shirt and a water bottle.

T-shirts are subject to size and color availability. We are also in the process if creating a new shirt. We thank you for your patience. 

Questions: kcksfoundation@kckps.org