Funds adult education in Massachusetts correctional facilities to improve literacy, workforce skills, and educational outcomes for incarcerated adults through inclusive, high-quality instruction.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates: May 28, 2026 (Full application submission deadline into GEM$)
Funding Amounts: Approx. $1,567,475 available; award size based on regional need and prior performance; project duration: 7/1/2026–6/30/2027.
Summary: Supports adult education programs in Massachusetts correctional institutions to improve literacy, workforce readiness, and educational outcomes for incarcerated individuals.
Key Information: Only FY2026-funded programs from the FY2024–2028 cycle are eligible; submission via GEM$ system is mandatory.
This grant, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), funds adult education programming in county jails and houses of correction across the state. The goal is to provide incarcerated adults with high-quality education services, including literacy, numeracy, high school equivalency, English language acquisition, and workforce skills. The program emphasizes reducing educational disparities, supporting family literacy, and facilitating transitions to postsecondary education and employment. It encourages collaboration with workforce partners and innovative, inclusive practices to best serve incarcerated learners.