The After School Education and Safety (ASES) Universal Grant Round 2 is administered by the California Department of Education’s Expanded Learning Division. This initiative stems from Proposition 49, approved by voters in 2002, and aims to provide comprehensive, locally driven expanded learning programs across California. These programs are intended to support literacy, academic achievement, and provide a safe environment for students in kindergarten through ninth grade, especially in elementary and middle/junior high school settings.
The ASES Program prioritizes partnerships between local educational agencies (LEAs) and community-based organizations, with funding awarded based on the percentage of students eligible for Free and Reduced-Priced Meals (FRPM). Grants are issued in one-year increments and are renewable for a total of three years, contingent upon compliance with program and fiscal requirements. An estimated $30 million is available for the 2025–26 fiscal year, with individual award caps set at $152,612.13 for elementary schools and $203,482.84 for middle schools. Large schools may apply for increased funding using a specified adjustment formula.
Funds must be used to support two core components: an educational and literacy element, which includes tutoring or homework assistance in core subjects, and an enrichment element offering a range of activities such as STEM, arts, recreation, and mentoring. Programs must operate on every regular school day, begin immediately after school ends, and run until at least 6 p.m. They are also required to offer nutritious snacks, maintain a 20:1 student-to-staff ratio, and comply with language accessibility requirements.
Applications must be submitted via both the ASSIST system and in hard copy by December 3, 2025. Required documents include a Program Narrative (for new applicants), signed assurances, and school site approvals. The CDE evaluates applications based on eligibility, FRPM percentages, and completeness of submissions. Disqualified applicants will be notified in December 2025, with the final award list posted in January 2026.
Compliance and accountability are central to ASES funding. Grantees must submit attendance, expenditure, and outcome-based reports regularly, and ensure no more than 15% of funds are used for administrative costs. A local match of at least one-third of the total grant is required, excluding more than 25% in in-kind facilities contributions. Programs must adhere to continuous quality improvement practices and undergo annual financial audits.
Technical assistance is available through regional support networks. For questions, applicants can contact the Expanded Learning Division at expandedlearning@cde.ca.gov or 916-319-0923. The grant opportunity is recurring annually, with the next expected cycle likely to open in Fall 2026.
Submit early to avoid technical issues with ASSIST; ensure all signatures and forms are complete to prevent disqualification; leverage CALPADS data for site selection.
