The Mississippi Statewide Afterschool Network works to better our state and its communities by connecting providers, parents and policymakers with proven tools and resources to increase the quality of and access to out-of-school time programming for K-12 children and youth.

 

Afterschool is a lifeline that keeps youth safe, helps kids learn and grow, and provides parents the ability to work without worry. 

Mississippi has hundreds of afterschool and summer learning programs across the state for children and families. Use this map to find a program in your area.

Mississippi has hundreds of afterschool and summer learning programs across the state for children and families. Use this map to find a program in your area.

Major Funding Opportunity: 21st CCLC Cohort 9 Grant Now Open!

May 26, 2025 | Afterschool in Mississippi, Funding Opportunities, Local Funding Opportunities, National Funding Opportunities

Hello Afterschool Community,

The Mississippi Statewide Afterschool Network (MSAN) is thrilled to share a significant announcement from the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), Office of Federal Programs: the release of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Cohort 9 grant!

This federal funding opportunity is a cornerstone for establishing and enhancing vital afterschool programs that provide critical academic enrichment, diverse activities, and essential support services for students and their families across Mississippi. We encourage all eligible organizations to explore how this grant can empower your work and make a lasting impact in your community.

Table of Contents

What is the 21st CCLC Program? 

The 21st CCLC program provides federal funding to establish or expand community learning centers that offer academic enrichment during non-school hours. This focus is particularly on students attending high-poverty and low-performing schools.

The goals of the program are clear:

  • To help students meet state and local academic standards.
  • To offer a broad array of enrichment activities that complement the regular academic program.
  • To provide literacy and educational services to families of participating students.

The full RFP is now available directly on the MDE Bid Announcements webpage under the Request for Proposals/Qualifications/Applications – Grants section. You can also read it by clicking below. 

Read Full RFP Here

Who is Eligible to Apply? 

A diverse range of organizations committed to supporting Mississippi’s students and communities are eligible to apply for this funding. This includes:

  • Local Education Agencies (LEAs)
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Community-based and faith-based organizations
  • Institutions of higher education
  • For-profit corporations
  • City or county government agencies

Key Dates for Your Calendar 

Mark these important deadlines and events to ensure you don’t miss out on this opportunity:

  • (PASSED) June 3, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.: Virtual Pre-Proposal Conference
  • (PASSED) June 6, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.: Deadline for Submitting Questions
  • June 11, 2025: Q&A Posted on MDE Website
  • June 30, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.: PROPOSAL SUBMISSION DEADLINE
  • August 21, 2025: State Board of Education Approval

 

Frequently Asked Questions

MDE has accumulated all of their frequently asked questions from programs interested in applying just like you. Look over to see what you can take away!

 

Have Questions? Contact MDE 

For any questions related to the RFP or the 21st CCLC program, please contact the MDE Office of Federal Programs directly:

  • RFP-related questions: Contact Chris Ranson at cranson@mdek12.org (please include “Cohort 9 21st CCLC RFP” in the subject line).
  • General program inquiries: Contact Mrs. Porsha Jordan, State 21st CCLC Coordinator, at pjordan@mdek12.org.

The Mississippi Statewide Afterschool Network is committed to supporting your efforts to secure this vital funding. We encourage you to review the RFP thoroughly, attend the support sessions, and submit a strong proposal. This grant represents a significant opportunity to continue fostering growth and success for Mississippi’s students and their families.

 

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