21st Century Community Learning Centers

The Minnesota Department of Education has administered the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC) program since 2002. The purpose of the program is to establish or expand community learning centers that provide students with enrichment opportunities during non-school hours or periods when school is not in session (such as before and after school or during summer recess). These federal funds, authorized under Title IV, Part B, of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015, are awarded through a competitive peer review process that priorities programs serving students in high-poverty, low-performing schools.

An effective community learning center engages schools and communities to address a common goal. These partnerships provide students with a broad array of academic supports, enrichment programs and school engagement opportunities designed to complement their regular academic program and help students achieve, connect and thrive.

A list of External Organizations to provide community learning centers (and aspiring community learning centers) with mentoring and guidance is available from Ignite Afterschool. External Organizations are nonprofit organizations screened by Ignite Afterschool to ensure their professional development is aligned with Believe It. Build It. Minnesota’s Guide to Effective Afterschool Practices. The designation is primarily a courtesy to help 21CCLC grantees and applicants be aware of the variety of nonprofits who may have the interest and capacity to support them as they plan and implement effective programs. Designation of an organization as an External Organization does not ensure the organization will be invited to contract with 21CCLC grantees or applicants.

The 21st CCLC - Cohort 8 grant competition is currently open for applications. Please visit the Grant Opportunity webpage and find this grant by title to access the application documents. The application must be received by April 19, 2019, by 3:30 p.m. Central Standard Time.