RIDE Makes $3 Million Available for After-School and Summer Programs

Published on Wednesday, February 06, 2019

Proposals for Summer 2019 Due March 29

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) today released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CLC) grant. Approximately $3 million is available for successful 21st Century CLC applicants providing high-quality out-of-school programs for students in elementary or secondary schools.

Priority will be given to applications that address strong foundations for early learning, or career pathways for students, two of RIDE’s key focus areas.

“After-school and summer programs can make a tremendous difference for students, reinforcing what they learn in school, enhancing important academic and social emotional skills, and exposing them to future pathways to college and career,” said Ken Wagner, Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education. “Rhode Island’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers provide these supports and more to students across the state, particularly in our most high-need communities. I look forward to seeing what this year’s applicants put forth, and how their vision for serving young people will strengthen the state’s long-term strategy to engage, challenge, and prepare all students.”

Proposals must include both after-school and summer programming that complement the school day. Academic enrichment and family engagement are essential components of a strong 21st Century CLC program, and proposals must demonstrate an effective partnership between the local education agency (LEA) and a community-based organization.

Applicants are invited to a bidders conference webinar on Thursday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Applicants must signal their intent to apply by Friday, March 1 at 4 p.m., and must apply by Friday, March 29, at 4 p.m. Grants will begin on July 1, 2019, and are for five years, pending continued federal funding and successful program implementation.

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