Early College Support Grant

The Early College Support Grant is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education through its Office of Early College. This state-funded initiative is designed to strengthen and expand designated Early College programs across Massachusetts. These programs are structured partnerships between secondary schools and institutions of higher education, intended to provide students with meaningful exposure to college-level coursework and experiences while still in high school. The grant aligns with broader state priorities to improve postsecondary readiness and equitable access to higher education opportunities. The primary purpose of this grant is to provide targeted financial resources that enable designated Early College partnerships to develop, implement, and sustain their programming. The funding supports efforts to reimagine the high school experience by integrating college access and success strategies into the secondary education environment. Both the designated high school and its partner institutions of higher education are eligible to benefit from these funds, provided they are part of an officially designated Early College program. Funding levels vary depending on the stage of program designation. Programs in their first or second year of designation may receive awards of up to 120000, while programs in their third year or beyond may receive up to 75000. Total program funding is approximately 9100000, though final allocations are subject to change based on availability. These funds are intended to support capacity building, student engagement strategies, and program sustainability. However, funds may not be used for capital expenses or contributions to the Massachusetts Teachers Retirement System. Allowable uses of funds are broad but focused on improving access and success for underserved student populations. This includes supporting first-generation college students, students of color, English language learners, students with disabilities, and low-income students. Funds may be used for activities such as college awareness programming, transportation to college campuses, academic supports, mentoring, tutoring, career development activities, and curriculum alignment. Emphasis is placed on fostering a strong college-going culture and removing barriers to postsecondary success. Eligibility is limited to Early College programs that have received official designation by the state. Priority is given to programs in their first or second year of implementation. Participation requirements include attendance at two mandatory funding meetings, one prior to fund disbursement and another midyear review, with both fiscal and programmatic staff required to attend. Additionally, recipients must certify compliance with Massachusetts General Laws, including provisions related to the MBTA Communities Act. Applications must be submitted through the Grants for Education Management System, a cloud-based platform used by the department for grant administration. Submission requires coordination at the Local Educational Agency level, including roles for grant writing, fiscal review, and executive approval. All necessary forms must be completed and submitted according to the instructions provided within the system. The application deadline is July 17, 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time, and late submissions are not accepted. The project period runs from the date of approval through June 30, 2027, with an additional optional summer spending period extending through August 31, 2027, contingent upon a separate application. Funds must be obligated within the approved project timeline, and expenditures cannot occur prior to application approval. Award notifications are issued through the Grants for Education Management System, which serves as the official communication platform for grant awards and management.

Focus on demonstrating support for underserved student populations and alignment with Early College goals; ensure compliance requirements and staff participation commitments are clearly addressed