FY2027: Massachusetts 21st Century Community Learning Centers Exemplary Programs
Forecasted
This grant supports exemplary afterschool programs in Massachusetts that model and advance best practices to improve student learning and engagement.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2026 | July 2027
Funding Amounts: Approx. $3,000,000 total; minimum award $50,000/site; applicants may request up to $10,000/site for transportation; continuation possible for up to 3 years.
Summary: Supports exemplary 21st Century Community Learning Center programs in Massachusetts that model best practices and foster continuous improvement in student learning.
Key Information: Highly competitive; only prior grantees (FY22 SALT or FY24 Exemplary) are eligible; submission must be through GEM$ with all LEA approvals.
Description
This grant, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), is designed to support a statewide network of high-quality 21st Century Community Learning Center (21stCCLC) programs that demonstrate ongoing program improvement. Grantees are expected to serve as models, mentors, and resources for best practices in afterschool and out-of-school time programming. The program emphasizes continuous enhancement through data-driven improvement, project-based and academically enriching learning, culturally relevant engagement, and elevating youth agency and voice. Additional priorities include supporting students from historically marginalized backgrounds, contributing to a library of high-quality learning units, and developing sustainable models for additional learning time aligned with DESE’s educational vision and strategic priorities.
