Stronger Connections Grant

The Stronger Connections Grant (SCG) program is a component of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022, and provides $1 billion in funding for states to distribute to high-need schools under Title IV Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. SCG program funds will be used to provide competitive grants to high-need PreK-12 public school districts as determined by the State.

Goals

The overall goal of the Stronger Connections grant is to help schools provide all students with safe and supportive learning opportunities and environments that are critical for their success by establishing emergency operation plans, a positive school culture and climate and prioritizing student wellness.

These funds can be used to support school and community partnerships that pursue multifaceted solutions to more effectively prevent and respond to acts of bullying and violence that impact members of our school communities at both individual and systemic levels. Subgrants can support conducting school safety assessments and creating safety plans, increasing access to integrated student supports, implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) or Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), or improving meaningful family engagement opportunities, or other allowable activities.

Criteria

Criteria must address the following:

• Implementing comprehensive, evidence-based strategies that meet each student’s social, emotional, physical, and mental well-being needs; create positive, inclusive, and supportive school environments; and increase access to place-based interventions and services.
• Engaging students, families, educators, staff, and community organizations in the selection and implementation of strategies and interventions to create safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments.
• Designing and implementing policies and practices that advance equity and are responsive to underserved students, protect student rights, and demonstrate respect for student dignity and potential.

The funding period for this grant expires Sept. 30, 2026.

Program Funds

Due Dates

Guidelines

Stronger Connections Grant Guidelines - Grant Recipients are encouraged to thoroughly read this document for expenditure allowability prior to submitting reimbursement claims in IowaGrants.gov.

Apply

Application and budget forms available in IowaGrants.gov. 

Recipient Resources

Stronger Connections Grant Spring 2025 Implementation Webinar  - Recorded 1-14-25. Webinar provides subgrant recipients with information on how to proceed with action plan implementation, reimbursements and annual status reports. 2025-01-14 PowerPoint

Grant Resources Memo