Best Starts for Kids Expanded Learning Grants
Eligibility
Organizations providing expanded learning programs (afterschool, summer) to youth in King County, Washington.
Program Goals
Best Starts for Kids is a King County initiative that funds programs improving child and youth outcomes. Expanded learning grants, distributed through School's Out Washington, support afterschool, summer, and out-of-school time programs that improve academic outcomes, social-emotional development, and youth wellbeing. STEM programming is a strong fit for these grants.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications are submitted through School's Out Washington when funds are available. Program availability depends on King County Best Starts for Kids levy cycles. Monitor schoolsoutwashington.org for current grant openings and eligibility.
Cycle Notes
Availability varies by King County levy cycle. Best Starts for Kids is levy-funded, so grant rounds open when levy revenue is distributed through School's Out Washington. Check schoolsoutwashington.org for current status.
Grant Award Amount
Award amounts vary by funding round and program type. Past expanded learning grants have ranged from small supplemental awards to multi-year program grants. Review current guidelines when programs open.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit - Afterschool and expanded learning programs benefit from structured, engaging coding activities. This kit is designed for accessible, hands-on use by non-specialist educators.
- Climate Action Kit - Environmental science and climate content works well in out-of-school time settings where students can explore and experiment more freely.
- Forward Education Learning Platform - Full lesson plans and educator support resources that work for afterschool program staff who may not have a formal STEM background.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Best Starts for Kids?
It is a King County levy-funded initiative that supports programs for children and youth from prenatal through age 24. Expanded learning grants fund out-of-school time programs in King County.
Who distributes these grants?
School's Out Washington distributes expanded learning grants on behalf of King County Best Starts for Kids. Applications go through schoolsoutwashington.org.
Are these grants only for King County?
Yes. Best Starts for Kids and School's Out Washington expanded learning grants serve King County communities only.
Can we use funds for STEM programming?
Yes. Afterschool and expanded learning programs that include STEM activities, including coding and science kits, are well-aligned with expanded learning grant goals.
How often do these grants open?
Availability depends on King County levy cycles and School's Out Washington funding rounds. Check schoolsoutwashington.org regularly for current opportunities.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents - Washington standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing - classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support - documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence - ready-to-use program outlines
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
Get the Grant Guide
