The Expanded Learning Division (EXLD) of the California Department of Education (CDE) is pleased to announce the release of the After School Education and Safety (ASES) Universal Program Request for Applications (RFA) and the ASES Frontier Transportation RFA for funding beginning in the 2021–22 fiscal year. Both RFAs can be found on the CDE Funding Opportunities web page.

After School Education and Safety Universal Program Request for Applications

The ASES Universal RFA is for new program sites or for current grantees that wish to apply for increased funding up to the legislative cap. The ASES Universal RFA can be found on the CDE RFA web page. The RFA will provide background and details of all the application requirements.

Due to the elimination of the 2020–21 grant reductions process because of COVID-19, it is estimated that the ASES funding available for 2021–22 is approximately $1.7 million based solely on school closures and site cancellations. The significantly lowered amount available for funding makes this grant funding year an extremely more competitive process than previous years.

For more information about ASES Grants, please access the ASES Frequently Asked Questions.

After School Education and Safety Frontier Transportation Program Request for Applications

The ASES Frontier Transportation RFA is to provide supplemental funding for existing ASES grantees that have transportation needs due to their after school program site being located in Frontier Areas as specified in California Education Code Section 8483.7(a)(5). The RFA will provide background and details of all of the application requirements.

The ASES Frontier Transportation RFA, Frequently Asked Questions, a list of eligible sites, and more can be found on the CDE RFA web page. 

Final Filing Date

The final filing date for both applications is February 18, 2021, by 11:59 p.m. Please refer to the RFAs for this year’s new electronic application submission instructions.