Bureau of Indian Education Announces 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Awardees

Washington, D.C. – The Bureau of Indian Education announces the recipients of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Competition. This discretionary grant will be awarded to 45 schools, including 37 Tribally Controlled Schools and eight Bureau-operated schools. $8.9 million will be distributed annually over five years based upon the availability of federal funding to support out-of-school-time programs that strengthen academic enrichment and student engagement.

“The Bureau of Indian Education is excited to help schools implement these programs essential to our students’ everyday lives,” said Bureau of Indian Education Director Tony Dearman. “Our schools’ successes in the past show their creativity and dedication toward the 21st Century program will only expand in the future.”

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers program was created under federal law to support after-school and summer programs for students. These programs help students with reading, math, and other subjects, and offer fun and educational activities outside regular school hours. The program also provides family learning opportunities like literacy and education services.

“The 21st Century program helps prepare our students for modern life,” said Sarah Price, BIE Education Program Specialist for Supplemental Education Programs. “By offering innovative learning experiences outside the classroom, our students develop tribal cultures and languages, explore new skills and gain confidence.”

Funds from the 21st CCLC grant can be used for various purposes, including youth development activities, service learning, nutrition and health education, drug and violence prevention programs, counseling, tribal cultures, languages, arts, music, physical fitness, technology education, financial literacy, environmental literacy, and career and technical programs.

In the past, BIE schools used 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding to create strong, effective programs. For example, the Flagstaff Bordertown Dormitory implemented a comprehensive after-school program that significantly improved students' academic performance and social skills. Similarly, the Salt River School's summer learning program provided students with hands-on STEM activities, fostering a love for science and technology.

The BIE is committed to enhancing educational opportunities for Native American students and is excited to see the positive impact these grants will have on their academic and personal growth.

21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Awardees: