News Release - Expanded Learning Opportunities grant available for districts, community organizations to help students academically

May 3, 2022

Expanded Learning Opportunities grant available for districts, community organizations to help students academically 

DENVER – The Colorado Department of Education is making up to $10 million available for school districts and community-based providers for quality afterschool and summer programs to help students overcome the academic challenges brought on by the pandemic. 

The new ESSER Expanded Learning Opportunities grant is funded through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds set aside for state-level priorities. Eligible applicants can receive up to $2 million with a maximum of $2,000 per student served annually.

“We believe the best way to address the academic challenges that were exacerbated by the pandemic is through a coordinated and consistent community approach,” said Education Commissioner Katy Anthes. “Supporting our students will not only require the efforts of educators during the school day but also through a whole-community approach that incorporates quality afterschool and summer programs.”

Eligible applicants include school districts, BOCES, Charter School Institute, a facility school and the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind. Additionally, public libraries, Colorado community-based organizations, Indian tribes or tribal organizations and institutes of higher education or other public agencies can apply. 

Applications for the ELO grant are due June 28, 2022. More information and links to the application are available on CDE’s ESSER Expanded Learning Opportunities Grant webpage.

Go to CDE's website to learn more about programs funded through the ESSER State Reserve Fund.

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