KNEST

The Knob Noster Educational Security Trust (KNEST) is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization that was established in May 1995. KNEST was formed to solicit and receive tax exempt donations, bequests, and other gifts from friends, alumni, local businesses, and corporations for the benefit of the Knob Noster schools, faculty, and staff. KNEST is managed by a Board of Directors that manage all activities of the organization and vote to approve all scholarship or funding requests.

Board members of KNEST are:

President - Bill Bivins
Vice President - Ben Franklin
Treasurer - Catrina Coleman
Secretary - Wendy Buzzanga
Member at Large - Jamie Foster
Member at Large - Dr. Jerrod Wheeler (position is sitting KNSD Superintendent)
Member at Large - Larry Bolton (position is a sitting or former Board of Education member)

Over the years, the primary charter for KNEST has evolved to provide opportunities exclusively for the educational purposes to Knob Noster School District students in the form of scholarships. Scholarships are used for continuing education beyond high school as well as to assist students with taking dual credit courses while in their Junior or Senior year. The KNEST board works directly with school counselors to send applications to students.

The annual scholarship contributions made by KNEST to students range between $3,000 to $4,000. The primary means for KNEST fundraising is the Major Saver card sales held at the beginning of each school year. All proceeds raised from Major Saver go directly to KNEST, and a percentage of money raised is paid directly back to each school building that participates. The amount paid to each building is based on the number of cards sold by that building. The funds support improved education processes beyond current standards and generate money for capital improvements that directly impact the learning process.

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KNEST offers multiple opportunities for alumni and vested citizens to fulfill philanthropic goals on a tax-exempt basis through cash or estate planning to the foundation.

If you are interested in supporting Knob Noster Public Schools through KNEST, you may contact President Bill Bivins - [email protected] 

Gifts may be sent in care of KNEST to:

Knob Noster Public Schools
401 E. Wimer Street
Knob Noster, MO 65336