KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kauffman Foundation has awarded $2.5 million in grants for programs designed to improve Kansas City-area schools.

The foundation announced Thursday that it would invest $1 million in the Kansas City Midtown Community School Initiative’s plan for charter schools and another $1.5 million in 10 college prep and scholarship programs.

The Kansas City Star reports  the initiative for midtown charter schools is a parent-led effort to open two elementary schools in 2016 and expand to a high school by 2027.

The 10 postsecondary education support and scholarship programs include public and private school programs and community-based programs. It benefits schools in Kansas City Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas, as well as several other education initiatives that create college access and support for disadvantaged students.