The Maine DOE has issued a request for proposals seeking bids to establish or extend 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) in 2015-2016.
The purpose of Maine’s federally funded 21st CCLC program is to establish or expand community learning center programs that provide low-performing and economically disadvantaged students with academic enrichment opportunities and activities designed to complement their regular academic program. 21st CCLC programs – which can be located in elementary or secondary schools or other similarly accessible community facilities – provide a range of high-quality services to support student learning and development, including:
- Mentoring, tutoring and homework assistance
- Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) projects
- Physical and mental health/wellness activities
- Visual and performing arts education
- Cultural awareness and multi-cultural curriculum
- Community service opportunities
- Family engagement, education and support
At the same time, Maine’s 21st CCLC programs help working parents by providing safe, conducive learning environments for students during non-school hours or periods when school is not in session.
The request for proposal, which includes information regarding eligibility for new and continuation applicants, is available here. A bidder’s conference to provide information for completing the application and an opportunity for potential bidders to ask questions is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 19 at the Department of Public Safety at 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta.
For more information on the 21st Century Community Learning Center Program, please contact the Maine DOE’s Federal Grant Coordinator Travis Doughty at travis.w.doughty@maine.gov.