An after-school and summer school program is on the federal chopping block, but the state still has $1.5 million in hand — and wants applicants.
The State Department of Education plans to award another round of five-year grants, as it tries to expand Idaho’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers program.
The program now funds 102 programs across the state, serving 7,500 students. The centers are designed to provide a safe after-school environment for students, especially in high-poverty schools.
“These 21st Century Community Learning Centers provide critical support for thousands of Idaho students who would otherwise be idle and unsupervised after school,” said Andrew Fletcher, the SDE’s Community Learning Centers and student engagement coordinator.
President Trump has proposed zeroing out Community Learning Centers funding, although Congress has kept the program intact. Either way, this round of grants is a go, because the $1.5 million comes from cash on hand, SDE spokeswoman Kris Rodine said.
The SDE will hold a webinar for would-be applicants at 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 27. Click here to register.
The SDE will also hold regional workshops about the application process, all running from 8 a.m. to noon. Here’s the schedule:
- Nov. 7: Lewiston, 415 Main St., second floor.
- Nov. 8:Coeur d’Alene, 1000 W. Garden Ave.
- Nov. 10: Meridian, 1303 E. Central Drive.
- Nov. 17: Twin Falls,242 Main Ave.
- Nov. 18: Pocatello, 3115 Pole Line Road.
Grant applications are due Jan. 26.
