Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education has opened the window for a Notice of Intent to Apply for the Nita M. Lowey 21^st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC) grant for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.  The deadline for submitting a Notice of Intent to Apply (NOI) is January 26.

The 21CCLC grant program supports high-quality learning opportunities outside of the regular school day for students attending high-poverty, low-performing schools by providing academic enrichment activities, youth development, and family engagement services. Schools and other eligible organizations that provide care or services to students outside of the regular school day are encouraged to apply.

21CCLC grant awards range from a minimum of $50,000 and not to exceed $300,000 per-year over four consecutive years.

Submitting the NOI is required to apply for funding, but it does not obligate an organization to apply. Application details will be communicated to contacts provided on the NOI. The deadline for the full application is March 12, 2026.

The 21CCLC program is authorized under Title IV, Part B of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), designed to improve student academic achievement, provide enrichment opportunities, and support youth development, promoting alignment with the regular school day.

To access the Notice of Intent to Apply or learn more about 21CCLC grant programs, visit doe.sd.gov/21CCLC/.

--30--