EdTech Online: U.S. Department of Education Technology Grant Programs

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21st Century Community Learning Centers

The teaching of technology and instruction via technology both are elements of the 21st Century Community Learning Center Program (21^st CCLC).

The focus of the 21st Century Community Learning Center program, re-authorized under Title IV, Part B, of the No Child Left Behind Act, is to provide expanded academic enrichment opportunities for children attending low-performing schools. Tutorial services and academic enrichment activities are designed to help students meet local and state academic standards in subjects such as reading and math. In addition, 21st Century Community Learning Center programs provide youth development activities, technology education programs, drug and violence prevention programs, art, music and recreation programs, counseling and character education to enhance the academic component of the program.

For this program, formula grants are awarded to State educational agencies, which in turn manage statewide competitions and award grants to eligible entities. Any public or private organization is now eligible to apply for a 21st CCLC grant.

Examples of agencies and organizations now eligible under the 21st CCLC Program include, but are not limited to:  non-profit agencies, city or county government agencies, faith-based organizations, institutions of higher education and for-profit corporations.  The statute encourages eligible organizations applying for funds to collaborate with the schools the children attend.  The statute also allows a consortium of two or more agencies, organizations or entities to apply.

According to the Non-Regulatory Guidance for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, a document designed to help state educational agencies and eligible public and private schools and organizations understand how they can successfully participate in this program, the following initiatives are sanctioned for this grant:

1. Scientific inquiry into the natural and physical world, as well as practical applications of science and technology.
2. Skill development in computer and multimedia technology.
3. Writing, editing and knowledge of and comfort with technology.
4. Development of Technology education programs.

Many states around the country are conducting competitions to award 21st Century Community Learning Center grants. Consult the following list, which includes links to State websites. Many of these sites provide application due dates. For those states that have not developed program websites, phone the state contact person for further information.

State Department of Education Contacts, Websites, and Application Due Dates

Resources:

The U.S. Department of Education funds the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Gateway, a comprehensive, streamlined collection of resources, information, and services. The purpose of this gateway is to help the after school community and the 21st Century Community Learning Centers create, improve, and sustain effective programs. To access 21st CCLC Gateway, visit http://www.learningpt.org/gateway/

The Non-Regulatory Guidance for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers document can be accessed and downloaded at: http://www.ed.gov/programs/21stcclc/guidance2003.doc

Visit the U.S. Department of Education, 21^st Century CCLC site:

http://www.ed.gov/programs/21stcclc/index.html

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