Pennsylvania 21st Century Community Learning Centers
What This Grant Funds
The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program provides federal funding, passed through state education agencies, to support academic enrichment programs for students in low-performing schools. In Pennsylvania, PDE administers the program and awards multi-year grants to schools and community organizations. Funded programs must run outside the regular school day and can cover STEM, coding, robotics, tutoring, and family engagement activities. Funds may be used for staffing, curriculum materials, equipment, and professional development.
Who Is Eligible in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania public schools, charter schools, and community-based organizations that partner with schools serving high-poverty, low-achieving students are eligible. Programs must operate before school, after school, or during summer. Priority goes to schools in which a high percentage of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.
Funding Amounts
Awards range from $100,000 to $400,000 per site per year. Multi-year grants typically run for three to five years, giving programs time to build sustainable after-school STEM and coding curricula.
How Forward Education Products Qualify
After-school programs funded by 21st CCLC can use Forward Education kits as core instructional tools. Our micro:bit-based coding and physical computing kits are designed for project-based learning that fits after-school program formats well. MicroChat AI literacy tools give older students structured exposure to AI concepts in a way that is accessible without prior coding experience. We provide alignment documents showing how our curriculum supports STEM enrichment goals and 21st-century skill development.
How to Apply and Timeline
PDE issues competitive requests for proposals for new 21st CCLC sites on a rolling basis. Existing grantees must submit continuation applications annually. New applicants should monitor the PDE grants portal and connect with their regional intermediate unit. Competition is significant, so strong community needs assessments, partnerships, and clear program plans improve chances of award.
Learn more about the 21st CCLC program from the U.S. Department of Education.
