Idaho parents, you can get money for educational materials for your student. Here’s how

In 2022, Idaho lawmakers created the Empowering Parent program, which provides grants of up to $3,000 to families for education materials. Priority is given to families making less than $60,000 per year, then to families up to $75,000 a year. All other incomes can then participate if funding is still available. The program has been overwhelmed by positive response, and we are working hard to approve existing applications and transfer funds to the Odyssey program as quickly as possible. So, how do you make the most of this grant opportunity?

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1. Do it early. Grant money is distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. If your household income is less than $60,000, you have the first opportunity, followed by families earning $75,000 or less. Regardless of your income, apply now so you’re in line and can be considered. Apply here today.

2. Make sure you’re eligible. The criteria are pretty straightforward. You must be a resident of Idaho, have submitted an individual tax return for 2021, or were exempt from filing. Lastly, you must have children in grades K-12 living in Idaho.

3. Keep all submission records. Make a copy of your completed form either by taking a screenshot or copying and pasting the application form. It’s always best to keep a record, just in case.

4. Carefully complete your application. Don’t delay your approval by leaving any answers blank or incomplete. It is better to double check or even have someone else check your application before submitting.

5. Check out all your options. The Empowering Parents grant is not only for textbooks but for other approved items.

These include:

• Music instruments (string instruments, digital pianos, guitars, ukuleles, etc.)
• Sheet music, method books, etc.
• Music stands and other music-related accessories

Angela Haycock, from Twin Falls, used some of her student’s grant money to purchase an acoustic guitar and hard case.

She said, “My daughter’s order arrived last week. She LOVES it! Her fingers have been dented for days! Thanks so much for your help and for making the purchase the easiest thing I’ve ever done!”

6. Enroll with vendors. Once you’re approved, log into WithOdyssey.com and select the vendors you’d like to work with. For music-related purchases, Idaho’s Teton Music store serves and ships to families across the entire state. Just browse their website, copy the links of what you’d like to order and then email Teton Music at service@tetonmusic.com to get your transaction started. Spencer Willis, a native of Idaho Falls and owner of Teton Music said, “Participating in the Empowering Parents grant and putting students in the driver’s seat for their education needs has been one of the most rewarding efforts I’ve been a part of.”

7. Use it or lose it. The grant amount you’re approved for can be spent in one or over multiple transactions. If you’re awarded a $1000 grant and spend $700 on an iPad, you still have $300 in your account. Look at your student’s needs and how your remaining funds could be put to use. Some vendors will also allow you to pay for products partially with grant funds and the remainder with your own personal credit card.

The Empowering Parents grant is helping thousands of Idaho families use these funds for their students’ unique needs. If you qualify and have not yet applied, get started today!