Grant funds available for after-school programs

The South Dakota Department of Education recently opened the application process for the federally funded 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) competitive grant program. 2013 grant application instructions are now online. 21st CCLC funds are to be used for programming that takes place outside of regular school hours. The competition is based on availability of federal funding.

The 21st Century Community Learning Center program supports the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools. Local programs help students meet standards in core academic subjects, such as reading and math; offer students a broad array of enrichment activities that complement their regular academic programs; and offer literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

Webinars for those interested in applying will be held on Jan. 23 and 24. Participants must preregister by Jan. 16 and can do so by visiting DOE’s 21st Century Learning Centers page.

For more information, contact Jill Cotton at (605) 773-4693.