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Grades 5-12 can enter College Savings Month essay contest
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 State Treasurer Lynn Rogers announced an essay contest for all Kansas students in grades 5-12 for a chance to win a $529 investment into a Learning Quest 529 savings account. The contest coincides with College Savings Month, which runs the entire month of September. 

“With the cost of higher education increasing over the last decade, Kansas families need all the help they can get to reduce that financial burden so their children and grandchildren have opportunities to achieve their dreams,” said State Treasurer Rogers. “Learning Quest 529 savings accounts are a great tool to help students save for whatever path they want to pursue after high school, and the purpose of this essay contest is to get students thinking about saving for their future.” 

To be eligible for the contest, students must have their parent or guardian submit a form to the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office and include their student’s response to two questions: 1) What do you think the Kansas State Treasurer does? and, 2) If you had $1 million, what would you do with it? 

Responses to both questions are required. However, the responses to the second question will be judged by a panel of teachers from around the state who have volunteered their time. Submissions will be accepted through close of business on Oct. 8. 

Essays will be grouped by grade levels of 5/6, 7/8, 9/10, and 11/12. One winner from each grade level grouping in each Congressional District will be named for a total of 16 winners. Winners will be announced in early November. Taxpayer dollars are not being used for this promotion. 

Learning Quest 529 Savings Plans allow any U.S. citizen or resident to open an account or be beneficiary, and there are no age or income limitations. The funds can be used for two-year, four-year, and technical school programs as well as registered apprenticeship programs. They can also be used for graduate school programs and to pay student loans. The funds do not have to be used exclusively in Kansas. 

To learn more about Learning Quest 529 Savings Plans, visit KansasCash.KS.gov.