The Iowa Department of Education has opened the application period for the 2026-27 Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grant. The program supports the creation and expansion of out-of-school time programs in Iowa. Applications are accepted until December 31, 2025.
The 21st CCLC grant is for communities where at least 40 percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. The grant provides safe spaces and enrichment activities for children and youth outside school hours. Eligible applicants include Iowa schools, community and faith-based organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, and groups of school districts or organizations.
Successful applicants may receive up to $300,000 per year for five years. The funds can be used for staff salaries, field trips, activity costs, and food. In the last cycle, three school districts—Council Bluffs, Clinton, and Des Moines—and three community organizations received a total of $7.3 million…