Connect for Success
The Connect for Success grant helps Colorado schools adopt proven, evidence-based strategies from high-achieving schools to boost academic outcomes for diverse student groups.
Funder: Colorado Department of Education
Due Dates: December 31, 2026: Application due (December) for Connect for Success | November 1, 2026: For federal awards: funds must be requested by 11/01 of each fiscal year | September 30, 2026: Final Expenditure Report (FER) in GAINS due each fiscal year by 09/30 | June 30, 2027: All post-award revisions must be approved by 06/30 (annual requirement) | June 30, 2027: School submits next year’s plan, budget, and baseline monitoring indicators (June)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 per school in Year 1; up to $80,000 per school in Year 2 and Year 3; 2.5-year support period.
Summary: Supports eligible Colorado schools in adopting proven strategies from high-achieving schools to improve outcomes for diverse student groups.
Key Information: Service capacity is limited by CDE staff; prioritization applies if demand exceeds available support.
Description
The Connect for Success (CFS) grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), is designed to help eligible schools in Colorado implement evidence-based strategies that have been shown to improve academic outcomes for diverse student populations, including English Learners, students with disabilities, students experiencing poverty, and minority students. Participating schools receive diagnostic visits, tailored recommendations, opportunities to learn from high-achieving schools, and ongoing implementation support. The program aims to replicate effective practices identified in CDE’s High Achieving Schools (HAS) studies, fostering sustainable improvement in student achievement.
