Eligibility

California public elementary and middle schools serving students in grades K-9 may apply. Schools must be located in communities with high rates of poverty and low academic achievement. Priority is given to Title I schools. Programs must operate a minimum of 15 hours per week during the school year and must include academic support and enrichment activities.

Program Goals

The ASES Program, administered by the CDE Expanded Learning Division, provides grants to schools and districts to operate safe, educationally enriching after-school programs for K-9 students. ASES programs must include academic support tied to California content standards, enrichment activities such as STEM, arts, and sports, and literacy development components. Programs are designed to keep students safe after school and provide working families with quality care.

Application and Distribution

ASES grants are awarded competitively through a Request for Applications (RFA) process administered by CDE. Applications must include a program plan, budget, site data, and evaluation plan. The current cycle is closed; the next cycle is expected to open January 14, 2027. Multi-year grants are awarded for 3-year periods.

Cycle Notes

ASES operates on an annual competitive RFA cycle. The current cycle closed in 2026, and the next cycle is expected to open January 14, 2027. Grants are typically 3-year awards. Monitor the CDE Expanded Learning Division website for current RFA timelines: cde.ca.gov/ls/ex/ases.asp.

Grant Award Amount

ASES funding is based on a per-pupil per-day formula, with rates of approximately $7.50 per pupil per day. Individual school awards vary by enrollment and program hours. Statewide ASES funding exceeds $600 million annually.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for ASES in California?

California public schools serving K-9 students in high-poverty communities may apply. Priority goes to Title I schools. Programs must operate at least 15 hours per week and include academic support, enrichment, and literacy components.

How much funding is available through ASES?

ASES is funded at approximately $7.50 per pupil per day. Statewide, the program distributes more than $600 million annually. Individual school awards depend on enrollment and approved program hours.

Can ASES funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. ASES funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.

How do California schools apply for ASES?

Apply through the CDE online application system during the competitive RFA window. The next cycle is expected to open January 14, 2027. Applications require a program plan, site data, budget, and evaluation plan.

How can Forward Education help with ASES funding?

Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for California schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes ASES funds. Contact us before submitting your application.