FY2027: Adult Education and Family Literacy Services
This grant funds Massachusetts Community Adult Learning Centers to deliver adult education, literacy, and workforce readiness programs, with a focus on equity and innovative, inclusive instruction.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Full application deadline) | June 2027 (Non-LEA indirect cost rate application)
Funding Amounts: Approx. $55 million total; typical awards determined by regional need and prior performance; project period up to 12 months.
Summary: Supports Community Adult Learning Centers in Massachusetts to deliver comprehensive adult education and family literacy services, with a focus on literacy, workforce readiness, and equity.
Key Information: Only FY2026 grantees from the FY2024–2028 cycle are eligible for this continuation grant.
Description
This grant, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), funds Community Adult Learning Centers (CALCs) to provide adult education and family literacy services across Massachusetts' 16 local workforce development areas. The program aims to improve adult literacy, facilitate workforce readiness, support parents as educational partners, and reduce educational disparities through high-quality, inclusive, and innovative programming. Services include English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Adult Basic Education (ABE), Adult Secondary Education (ASE), family literacy, and outstationing to connect learners with MassHire Career Centers. The grant emphasizes partnerships under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and supports both in-person and remote instruction.
