Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE)

The Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE) program, administered by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), provides funding to eligible providers of adult education to support the goals outlined in Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. The program aims to enhance literacy and education for eligible adults, including incarcerated individuals, to help them achieve self-sufficiency, earn a secondary school diploma, and transition into postsecondary education and career pathways. A significant focus is placed on assisting immigrants and other English language learners in improving their English proficiency and understanding of U.S. government structures and citizenship responsibilities. The primary objective of IELCE funding is to support adults in developing the literacy and skill sets necessary for employment and economic self-sufficiency. The program also prioritizes educational opportunities for parents to improve their ability to support their children's educational development. Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) funds must be used in conjunction with integrated education and training activities that prepare adults for employment in in-demand industries. Additionally, the program integrates with local workforce development systems to enhance career readiness. Services include literacy instruction, English language acquisition, and education on civic responsibilities, with the option of workforce training. Funding is available to government organizations, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations, including local educational agencies, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, volunteer literacy organizations, higher education institutions, public or private nonprofit agencies, libraries, public housing authorities, and partnerships with employers. Eligibility extends to adults and out-of-school youths aged 16 and older who lack sufficient basic educational skills, do not possess a high school diploma or equivalent, or have limited English proficiency. The application process varies based on the funding year. In non-competitive renewal years, existing providers must submit a continuation plan and budget, demonstrating satisfactory past performance and compliance with reporting requirements. In competitive years, new applicants must respond to a Request for Proposal (RFP) and fulfill all necessary application components. Evaluation criteria include demonstrated community need, program intensity and effectiveness, alignment with adult education services and local workforce plans, instructional quality, use of technology, program accessibility, and administrative capacity. Specific populations targeted include low-literacy and low-skilled adults, English language learners, the unemployed, low-income individuals, individuals with disabilities, veterans, homeless individuals, single parents, and others facing educational barriers. The funding period for the upcoming cycle includes a supplemental funding opportunity for existing FY25 providers in November-December 2024, with applications due by December 15. Programs must adhere to strict reporting and compliance requirements, including quarterly reports on student and program performance, annual budget submissions, financial audits, and inventory tracking. Awardees are expected to maintain records for at least three years and comply with federal and state regulations. Awards are distributed as formula grants, with funding allocations varying by year. The total funding for FY24 is $4,000,000, with previous years' allocations at approximately $3,038,500. Award amounts differ based on the scope and scale of the funded programs. Examples of previous awards include grants to organizations such as the Chinese Mutual Aid Association ($437,357), the Polish American Association ($291,246), and Heartland Community College ($212,776). Funds must be obligated by June 30 and expended by August 31 each year, and no formula matching requirements are imposed. Funding is transferred electronically, and awardees must comply with reporting and audit requirements outlined in federal and state policies.