The latest round of the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grant has officially opened. Iowa schools and community organizations can now apply for this five-year competitive grant that supports the establishment and expansion of high-quality out-of-school time programs. Applications will be accepted through Dec. 31.
Through the 21st CCLC grant, schools and community organizations can provide academic and enrichment activities in a safe learning environment for children and youth in need when school is not in session. This can include before and after school, teacher professional development or in-service days and holiday and summer breaks. The grant supports both elementary and secondary students and is intended to serve communities where at least 40% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. With the 21st CCLC grant opportunity, schools and organizations can positively impact academic performance, school attendance, student behavior, substance abuse and other areas through student and family support services.
“The 21st CCLC grant is an incredible opportunity to support Iowa schools and organizations that are providing engaging, high-quality out-of-school time programming,” said Joe Collins, education program consultant at the Iowa Department of Education. “We invite Iowa schools along with local organizations, whether they are community-based, faith-based, nonprofit or government agencies, to apply for this grant. We also welcome consortia of schools or organizations to apply together to help expand these important programs to children and teens in their areas.”
Iowa schools and community organizations can apply for up to $300,000 per year of a five-year cycle. Costs related to operating the 21st CCLC, such as staff salaries, field trips, activity costs, food and more, can be applied to the grant.
Last year, six Iowa individual school districts, one consortium of three school districts and four community-based organizations were awarded a five-year grant cycle, totaling more than $8.8 million .
To be eligible for the 2027 21st CCLC grant, all applicants are required to complete a letter of intent to apply by Nov. 30. The official application can be submitted through the Consolidated Accountability and Support Application (CASA) through Dec. 31. Additional grant information, timeline and resources are available on the Department’s website. To further support applicants with the process, the Department is also offering virtual office hours each month of the application period.
Funding for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers is provided through the Education and Secondary Education Act Title IV, Part B.
Specific questions regarding the 21st CCLC grant can be directed to Joe Collins at [email protected].