A Service-Learning Opportunity - SB 638 Signed, Calif. Afterschool Programs Boosted

Governor Signs Torlakson Bill, SB 638

With little fanfare, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today signed SB 638 (Torlakson). This bill will dramatically change the administration of the state's After School Education and Safety (ASES) program, boosting funding from $122 million to $550 million, increasing the daily per-child rate and the grant caps, and allowing for direct grants instead of reimbursement, among other changes. This signing will signal the California Department of Education to open the application process for the funds. All public elementary and middle/junior high schools are eligible to apply for the grant.

The application process will be open for six weeks after applications are released, with award letters expected to follow in the late fall. Currently funded ASES grantees will not have to reapply unless they plan on opening new programs in addition to those already funded.

Local education agencies (LEA), school districts, cities or counties are qualified to apply. Non-profit, community-based programs can also participate in partnership and with approval of the LEA. Afterschool programs considering this funding are encouraged to work with their local school district to apply as soon as is practical, as the Department of Education anticipates a heavy volume of funding requests.

Volunteer San Diego's Service-Learning Trainiers can help with these grant submissions. We also provide a range of trainings and techincal assistance options.

For more CDE information: click here