Eligibility

California public schools, school districts, community-based organizations, and other public entities may apply. Programs must serve students at schools with high concentrations of low-income students. Applicants must demonstrate community partnerships and a plan for academic enrichment, STEM, and family engagement activities.

Program Goals

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, funded by federal Title IV-B funds and administered by CDE, supports after-school and summer programs that provide academic enrichment, STEM education, arts, and health activities for students in high-need schools. Cohort 16 will fund new 5-year grants for programs that expand access to out-of-school time learning and college and career readiness in underserved California communities.

Application and Distribution

California 21st CCLC grants are awarded through competitive cohort-based RFAs. Applications must include a community needs assessment, program design, evaluation plan, budget, and evidence of community partnerships. Cohort 16 is expected to open in October 2026. Applications are scored on need, program quality, and organizational capacity.

Cycle Notes

California 21st CCLC grants are awarded in cohort cycles, with each cohort funding 5-year grant periods. Cohort 16 is expected to open for applications in October 2026. Monitor the CDE website at cde.ca.gov/ls/ex/21stcclc.asp for current RFA announcements and deadlines.

Grant Award Amount

California 21st CCLC grants can fund up to approximately $150,000 per year per site for a 5-year period. Multi-site organizations may receive funding for multiple centers. Total program funding statewide is several hundred million dollars distributed through federal Title IV-B allocations.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for 21st CCLC in California?

Public schools, school districts, nonprofits, and community-based organizations may apply. Programs must serve students at high-need schools with high poverty concentrations and must provide after-school or summer enrichment.

How much funding is available through California 21st CCLC?

Awards can fund up to approximately $150,000 per site per year over a 5-year grant period. Exact award amounts depend on program size and scope.

Can 21st CCLC funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. 21st CCLC 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 21st CCLC Cohort 16?

Apply through the CDE application system when Cohort 16 opens, expected in October 2026. Applications require a community needs assessment, program plan, evaluation design, budget, and partnership documentation.

How can Forward Education help with 21st CCLC 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 21st CCLC funds. Contact us before submitting your application.