Superintendent Arntzen Opens the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Competition

• Brian O'Leary
• November 29 2023

HELENA - Superintendent Elsie Arntzen has announced that under the provisions of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) is opening applications for the Nita M. Lowey 21^st Century Community Learning Centers Competition. Qualifying public and nonpublic schools and community programs will receive federal grant awards between $70,000 and $250,000 a year for five years. These dollars will be allocated through a competitive process to local communities for learning programs before and after school and during the summer months. These programs serve students and families that meet economic thresholds through:

• academic support in reading and math
• music and art
• health and wellness
• technology and career development
• drug and violence prevention
• social skill development

“Math and reading are the foundations of this grant,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “The learning opportunities outside of the classroom help our students strengthen academic success. This offers a strong partnership between our families, communities, and schools.”

An Intent to Apply is required for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Title IV Part B, competitive grant. The Intent to Apply will be open from December 11, 2023, through January 9, 2024. Applications will be open on E-Grants from January 16, 2024, through February 27, 2024, at 4:00 PM. An informational meeting has been scheduled for December 11, 2023, at 4:00 PM via Zoom, during which details about the grant competition will be provided. To participate in the informational meeting, please register here.