Kikifers Academy

KEA

2025-2026 FAQ

ADMISSIONS

Q: What grade levels does KEA serve?

A: KEA is a private K–12 academy serving students from kindergarten through high school, with a focus on entrepreneurship, authorship, and Black history .

Q: What makes KEA different from other schools?

A: Every student is required to publish a book each year and start a revenue-generating business. We combine the proven A.C.E. curriculum with entrepreneurship training and strong moral development .

Q: How do I apply for my child?

A: Families must complete all required enrollment forms (registration, medical, emergency contacts, financial commitment, etc.) and attend an interview. Admission is based on whether the student is a good “fit” for KEA

Q: What forms are required?

A: Registration form, medical records and immunizations, dental/eye exam forms, emergency contact info, financial commitment, student/parent expectations agreements, handbook agreement, after-school pickup form, and—for student drivers—license and insurance .

Q: How are enrollment decisions made?

A: After reviewing your application and interview, KEA staff will notify you of acceptance or denial. Attendance at KEA is considered a privilege, not a right .

Q: What is the tuition policy?

A: KEA families sign a financial commitment. Tuition must be paid on time; accounts more than $300 past due may require students to remain home until reconciled .

Q: Are scholarships or discounts available?

A: Yes—monthly donations and budget planning help KEA provide support for low-income families in need of scholarships

Q: What is the attendance policy?

A: KEA follows Illinois requirements with 178 days of school (1,068 hours). Students missing more than 20 days without a doctor’s note may be expelled .

Q: What about tardiness?

A: School begins promptly at 8:00 AM. Students not ready at 8:00 receive a demerit; five tardies equal one absence .

Q: Is transportation provided?

A: Parents are responsible for transportation, but the school must be informed of your child’s daily arrangements (carpool, bus route, pickup list, etc.) .

Q: What are the uniform requirements?

A: Boys wear white, gray, or burgundy polos/button-downs with khaki or gray dress pants. Girls wear similar polos or dress combinations. Black or brown shoes are required .

Q: How can parents be involved?

A: Parents are expected to support monthly fundraisers and are invited to join field trips, conventions, and events. KEA views itself as an extension of the home .

DONORS

Q: How can I make a donation to KEA?

A: Donations can be made securely online through our Zeffy donation page: KEA Donation Link. You can choose one-time or monthly giving

Q: Are donations tax-deductible?

A: Yes. KEA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN: 84-2546376). All donors receive a receipt for tax purposes

Q: How do donations help the school?

A: One-time gifts ($100–$2,500) help cover operations, field trips, equipment, and student needs. Monthly donations ($100–$2,500) help with staff salaries, PTA funding, scholarships, and building stability

Q: What perks do donors receive?

A: Depending on your giving level, perks may include:

Public acknowledgment on KEA’s Donor Page.
Free KEA apparel (hoodies/T-shirts).
Tickets to the annual KEA Gala.
Vendor opportunities at events.
Front-page acknowledgement and video interview (great for business owners).
For $2,500+ monthly donors: lifetime ads in every KEA student- or adult-published book for three years

Q: Can businesses partner with KEA?

A: Absolutely. Business donors are highlighted on KEA’s website and events. Some tiers include vendor space and permanent advertising opportunities

Q: Where can I see KEA’s donors?

A: All donors are listed on KEA’s Donor Page, with special recognition for recurring and high-level givers