FY2027: Adult Education and Family Literacy Services
Funds Massachusetts Community Adult Learning Centers to deliver adult education, family literacy, and workforce readiness programs that promote equity and measurable outcomes for adult learners.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Full application deadline) | June 2027 (Non-LEA indirect cost rate application deadline)
Funding Amounts: ~$55,000,000 total available; typical awards determined by regional allocation and prior performance; project period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027.
Summary: Supports Community Adult Learning Centers in Massachusetts to deliver adult education, family literacy, and workforce readiness services, emphasizing inclusion and measurable outcomes.
Key Information: Only FY2026 grantees from the FY2024–2028 cycle are eligible to apply for this continuation grant.
Description
This grant program, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), funds Community Adult Learning Centers (CALCs) and Outstationing services across 16 workforce development areas. Its purpose is to provide comprehensive adult education—including English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Adult Basic Education (ABE), Adult Secondary Education (ASE), Adult Diploma Programs (ADP), and family literacy—to eligible adults. The program is designed to help individuals become literate, gain workforce skills, support their children's education, achieve secondary credentials, and transition to postsecondary education or training. The grant emphasizes equity, innovation, and improved educational and economic outcomes for adult learners, particularly those most in need.
