21h Partnership Model District Grant

The 21h Partnership Model District Grant is administered by the Michigan Department of Education as part of its broader mission to support learners and improve educational outcomes across the state. This grant program is authorized under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 388.1621h and is specifically designed to provide financial support to partnership districts that have entered into formal agreements aimed at improving student performance. The Michigan Department of Education, headquartered in Lansing, plays a central role in overseeing public education policy, funding distribution, and program implementation across Michigan’s school systems. The primary purpose of the 21h Partnership Model District Grant is to support targeted educational improvements in eligible districts, with a strong emphasis on early literacy and foundational academic success. Funding priorities include initiatives focused on kindergarten through third grade literacy development, reducing class sizes in early grades, strengthening mathematics instruction, and addressing whole child needs such as social and emotional development. All funded activities must align with the goals outlined in each district’s partnership agreement and support long-term strategic planning efforts. Funding under this program includes both a standardized allocation component and additional awarded amounts based on application approval. Each eligible district is allocated a fixed amount of 3053 dollars specifically designated for the purchase of a data analytics tool, which must be included as part of the application. Additional funding may be awarded based on program priorities and available appropriations. Payments are distributed as lump sums and are incorporated into the next State Aid payment following approval, ensuring timely access to funds for implementation. Eligibility for the grant is limited to partnership districts that have executed signed partnership agreements with the state. These agreements typically outline performance goals and accountability measures for improving student outcomes. The application process is conducted through the NexSys platform, a centralized grant management system used by the Michigan Department of Education. District liaisons are available to assist applicants with system access and navigation prior to the opening of the application window, ensuring that all eligible participants can successfully submit their proposals. The application period for the most recent funding cycle opened on October 1, 2024, and closed on March 20, 2025. There is only one application window per school year, and applicants must submit all required materials within this timeframe. While specific evaluation criteria are not detailed in the summary information, funding decisions are expected to consider alignment with partnership goals, the quality of proposed interventions, and the potential for measurable impact on student achievement. Award notifications are followed by prompt disbursement of funds, and districts are expected to implement approved initiatives within the applicable fiscal or academic year. The program operates on an annual cycle tied to the school year, indicating a recurring funding opportunity for eligible districts. Additional support materials, timelines for fiscal years 2024 and 2025, and awardee lists are made available by the Michigan Department of Education to provide transparency and guidance for applicants.

Focus on alignment with partnership agreement goals, emphasize early literacy and math outcomes, and ensure inclusion of required data analytics tool