Eligibility

All California local educational agencies (LEAs) serving TK-6 students are eligible to receive ELO-P formula funds. Districts must provide at least 9 hours combined school day and ELO-P time per day for 180 days. Funds flow automatically to eligible LEAs through the state apportionment system.

Program Goals

ELO-P was created by AB 130 and expanded by subsequent legislation to provide students in grades TK-6 access to high-quality extended learning time beyond the regular school day. The program funds before-school, after-school, and summer programs that provide academic support, enrichment, physical activity, and social-emotional learning. Funds are distributed by formula based on unduplicated pupil count.

Application and Distribution

ELO-P funds are apportioned by formula — districts do not apply competitively. LEAs receive funds as part of the annual state budget process and must submit expenditure reports to CDE. Districts contract with school-based and community-based providers to deliver programming.

Cycle Notes

ELO-P is a permanent, ongoing program funded through the annual state budget. There is no competitive application deadline. Funds are distributed each fiscal year based on TK-6 unduplicated pupil counts. Check with your district business office to confirm local ELO-P allocation and approved uses.

Grant Award Amount

Statewide ELO-P funding exceeds $5 billion. Individual district allocations are formula-driven based on unduplicated student counts. Districts determine how to allocate their ELO-P funds across site-based providers, curriculum, staff, and equipment needs.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for ELO-P in California?

All California LEAs serving TK-6 students receive ELO-P formula funds. Districts must use the funds to provide expanded learning time programs meeting the required hours per day and year.

How much funding is available through ELO-P?

Statewide ELO-P funding exceeds $5 billion annually. Individual district allocations depend on unduplicated pupil counts. Contact your district to confirm your LEA's specific allocation.

Can ELO-P funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. ELO-P 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 access ELO-P funds?

ELO-P funds flow automatically to LEAs through the state apportionment system. Districts allocate funds to school sites and providers. Contact your district's expanded learning coordinator or business office to understand the local process.

How can Forward Education help with ELO-P 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 ELO-P funds. Contact us before submitting your application.