The California Serves Grant Program offers funding to local educational agencies (LEAs) for fiscal years 2024–2025 through 2026–2027, with a total annual budget of up to $5 million. Grants of up to $500,000 are available to eligible LEAs, with awards determined based on the quality and content of the submitted applications and proposed activities. The program aims to support educational initiatives that align with specified state priorities, as outlined in the funding announcement.
Eligible applicants are LEAs, which include school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools within California. Applicants must ensure that their proposed activities address the goals outlined in the Request for Applications (RFA), demonstrating a clear need and alignment with state objectives.
Applications are to be submitted online through a dedicated portal, which will be available soon. Supporting documents, including a fillable budget form, general assurances, and instructions for completing the application, can be accessed on the California Department of Education (CDE) website. Applicants must keep copies of signed assurances for compliance purposes and provide them during audits, reviews, or investigations as needed. Specific program assurances will be listed in the RFA.
Webinar slides and recordings to guide applicants will also be made available on the program's website. These resources are designed to assist applicants in understanding program requirements, application procedures, and evaluation criteria.
For questions related to program specifics, applicants can contact Sarah Smith at SSCE@cde.ca.gov. For technical issues with downloading application materials, inquiries should be directed to the Professional Learning Innovations Office at the same email address. This funding opportunity represents a key initiative for LEAs seeking to enhance educational outcomes through innovative programming and targeted investment.
