Who We Are
It all started when a group of high school moms were out to breakfast in 1984. They asked their waiter what his plans were following graduation. He explained that he wanted to go to college but it was not an option due to the high cost.
Carol Dark, one of those Kirkwood High moms, decided this really was unfair and something needed to be done about it. Carol and a group of friends personally put up funds to establish KAPS, the Kirkwood Area Perpetual Scholarship organization. Family and friends of Kirkwood High students and alumni were encouraged to contribute to the KAPS fund.
Fast forward 35 years. Over $450,000 has been awarded by KAPS and several hundred students have been assisted in following their dreams of a college education.
The work goes on as a dedicated group continues to raise funds to help other KHS graduates.
Donations by check can be made to Kirkwood Area Perpetual Scholarships and mailed to:
c/o Becky Schukar
1517 Ann Ave
Kirkwood, MO 63122
KAPS Board
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Becky Schukar
PRESIDENT
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Dan Geeting
VICE PRESIDENT
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Laci Hansard
SECRETARY
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Jim Billingham
TREASURER
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Phil Polster
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Harriet Polster
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Ruth Faerber
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Paula Hilderbrand
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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M. Kay Hagan
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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Chuck Schuder
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
We are always looking for new members of the community who would like to join the group to support Kirkwood kids!
If you are interested in learning more - the commitment level can be whatever you choose - please call or text Becky (314-348-6444) or Laci (314-496-2878)
Application
Process
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KAPS scholarships are merit and need-based. Any Kirkwood High School student may apply. A panel utilizes a point system to evaluate the candidates.
Number and size of awards vary each year.
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Scholarship applications are available online or from the KHS Guidance Office. Your completed application must include the following and be submitted via Google Forms no later than 3:00 PM on April 13th, 2026.
A photo of yourself
A copy of your parent's 2025 State and Federal Income Tax forms
A copy of your personal 2025 State and Federal Income Tax forms (if applicable)
A copy of your KHS high school transcript through your 7th semester
A 1-2 page typed essay on why you should be considered for a KAPS Scholarship
Applications missing any of the above items will not be processed.
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A KAPS committee representative will arrange an interview at KHS on April 15th or 16th where you will be given an opportunity to convey your aspirations and/or any special circumstances for the KAPS committee to consider.
Notifications will be made within a week of your interview.
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When you receive a scholarship from KAPS you will be invited to the KHS Awards ceremony where the KAPS committee will recognize you for your award.
Your award will come directly to you from KAPS each semester of your first year of college.
Your second semester award will be granted based upon your proof of enrollment.