CalKIDS allocates over $80 million to support students’ educational futures

October 4, 2024 /

In an effort to help more families in Kern County access higher education, the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is offering up to $1,500 in free funds for eligible students. Approximately 74% of Kern County’s public school students from the last three academic years qualify for this financial support, with over $80 million in funding already set aside.

Launched in 2022, CalKIDS is designed to make college or career training more accessible for families across California. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board (SIB) and chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, the program creates college savings accounts for eligible students. The funds can be used at accredited institutions across the U.S., including universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and professional institutions.

“CalKIDS gives families a head start on saving for their children’s future. We encourage all eligible families to claim their funds as soon as possible to maximize the benefits,” said Treasurer Ma. “By claiming their accounts early, students can watch their savings grow and use the funds when they are ready.”

Claiming a CalKIDS account is a straightforward process. Families need the student’s Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), a unique number assigned to every California public school student. With the SSID in hand, families can visit CalKIDS.org to confirm eligibility and claim the account.

The funds can cover a range of educational expenses, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, room and board, and computer equipment. Once students are enrolled in courses at an accredited institution, they can immediately access the funds.

Over 425,000 California families have already claimed their CalKIDS accounts. For families of students in Kern County, this represents a valuable opportunity to invest in their children’s educational futures without any financial risk.

For more information, visit CalKIDS.org.

About CalKIDS:

The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is a statewide program aimed at making college and career training more accessible. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, CalKIDS provides savings accounts for eligible California public school students. Visit CalKIDS.org to learn more.

Victoria Rodgers

Victoria Rodgers is an editor and reporter for Kern Sol News. Born in Bakersfield, CA, she received her Bachelor of Arts in English from Rockford University in Illinois. She can be reached at victoria@southkernsol.org.