Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE)

The Integrated English Language and Civics Education (IELCE) program, administered by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), is a federally funded initiative designed to enhance adult education and literacy skills among eligible populations. This program aligns with Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014 and is authorized under the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA). It targets adults, including incarcerated individuals and English language learners, to promote literacy, self-sufficiency, and readiness for postsecondary education and career pathways. The program also emphasizes English language acquisition, civic education, and understanding the responsibilities of citizenship. The IELCE program supports instruction that combines English literacy and civics education with workforce preparation. Funds must be used to provide integrated education and training activities that lead to unsubsidized employment in high-demand industries. This integration ensures that English language learners gain not only linguistic skills but also job readiness, helping them transition into economic self-sufficiency and actively engage in civic life. Additionally, the program fosters alignment with local workforce development systems to ensure consistency and effectiveness in service delivery. Eligible applicants include a broad spectrum of institutions such as local educational agencies, community-based and faith-based organizations, volunteer literacy organizations, institutions of higher education, libraries, public-housing authorities, and consortia or partnerships involving employers. These applicants must demonstrate a track record of effective service delivery, alignment with regional workforce needs, and capacity to serve individuals most in need, such as low-literacy adults, out-of-school youth, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and reentry individuals. Application procedures vary depending on the funding year. For continuation years, current grantees must submit a continuation plan and budget. In competitive years, applicants respond to a formal RFP, demonstrating need, alignment with local plans, instructional quality, integration of technology, use of research-based practices, and capacity for high-quality data management. All proposals must address flexible scheduling and supportive services, such as child care and transportation, to increase program accessibility. The application window for the next cycle runs from April 1, 2025, through December 15, 2025, with a supplemental funding opportunity available during November–December 2024. Funding awards are made electronically, with reporting requirements that include quarterly and annual submissions, audits, and maintenance of administrative records for at least five years. Indirect costs are capped at 5%, and funds must be obligated by June 30 and expended by August 31. The program is recurring and issued annually, with the next anticipated cycle expected to open in April 2026. Interested parties can contact Mark Mesle at mark.mesle@illinois.gov or 312-814-6501 for additional information. The program's main website is located at http://www2.iccb.org/adult_ed/, and further guidance can be found in the ICCB Adult Education Policy and Procedural Manual.

Focus on alignment with local plans, targeting underserved populations, data reporting readiness, and evidence of past impact.