The Title IV, Part A – Student Support and Academic Enrichment (SSAE) grant from the Illinois State Board of Education funds STEM, arts, mental health, safety, and digital literacy programs in Illinois schools.
Funder: Illinois State Board of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Annual Constitutionally Protected Prayer Certification deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Formula-based; most LEAs receive $30,000+ annually; funds must be spent by category minimums/maximums per federal rules.
Summary: Supports Illinois LEAs and nonpublic schools in providing well-rounded education, improving school environments, and enhancing digital literacy through technology.
Key Information: Annual prayer certification required by October 1; program is part of the ESSA consolidated application.
This program, administered by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), provides formula-based federal funding to Illinois public school districts and eligible nonpublic schools to advance academic achievement. The grant supports a wide range of initiatives, including STEM and arts education, mental health services, school safety, and technology integration. Funds are intended to ensure all students have access to a well-rounded education, safe and healthy learning environments, and effective use of technology to foster digital literacy. Participation is managed through the ISBE ESSA consolidated application, with strict requirements for fund allocation, reporting, and compliance.