The Kids First Education Scholarship Foundation is in the business of improving lives in Alabama and Mississippi. These two southern states rank near the bottom when compared to other U.S. states, as reported by National Kids Count, with Alabama at 47^th and Mississippi at 49^th respectively. These states also make up approximately 30% of the nation’s poverty, and they report twenty-eight percent of children below the age of 18 living in poverty.

Poverty has eroded the well-being in many of these southern communities, impacting education, health systems, and financial security. At the same time, the teacher shortage continues to exacerbate, with fewer students enrolling in teacher education programs. If not addressed, these conditions will worsen and deny opportunities for a full and fulfilling life for present and future generations. Education is critical to making a difference in these communities.

The Kids First Education Scholarship Foundation was established to generate funding and resources to help address the teacher shortages in Alabama and Mississippi. Our approach is straightforward and long term: 1) encourage K-12 students to consider teaching as a career, 2) provide financial assistance to aspiring teachers enrolled in K-12 teacher education programs, and 3) serve as a mentor to Kids 1^st teacher candidates on their journey to a degree and licensure.