IL HB0224

Amends the School Code Section 2-3.61a regarding the 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant Program administered by the State Board of Education.

For Fiscal Year 2022 only, requires the State Board of Education to award grants establishing 50 after-school programs in 50 disadvantaged communities where household income exceeds 95% of federal poverty guidelines.

Grants support whole child-focused after-school programs aligned with regular school academic programs to help students in high-poverty, low-performing schools meet performance standards and improve attendance and social-emotional skills.

Authorizes the State Board of Education to establish additional grant programs using state and federal funds to support high-quality, academically-based after-school programs with family-centered education activities.

Takes effect immediately upon becoming law.