HB 24-1331

HB 24-1331, also known as the Out-of-School Time Grant Program, provides $3.5 million in grants for nonprofit organizations to offer academic and enrichment programs to public school students during after-school hours or over breaks. These programs aim to improve student engagement, reduce absenteeism, and provide a well-rounded education including activities like arts, science, technology, and social skills development. The bill was signed into law by the governor on May 23, 2024, and will take effect on August 7, 2024, benefiting students and families across Colorado.

Official Summary

The act creates the out-of-school time program grant program (grant program) to provide grants to eligible 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organizations to provide academic enrichment and related services to public school students during times when school is not in session. The department of education (department) is required to administer the grant program. Grants must be used for: Academic enrichment; Opportunities for development in literacy, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and other subject matters for students and families; A safe learning environment and resources to increase student engagement in school and reduce chronic absenteeism; Programs and services that provide a well-rounded education and are designed to reinforce and complement school-based academic programs, including youth development activities, art, music, outdoor programs, recreational programs, technology education programs, physical health activities, and social and emotional wellness services; and Opportunities to develop meaningful workforce readiness and life skills. Grantees are required to annually report to the department, and the department is required to annually provide a report to the education committees of the house of representatives and the senate. For the 2024-25 state fiscal year, the act appropriates $3.5 million from the general fund to the department for the grant program. The act requires the general assembly to appropriate $3.5 million to the department for the grant program in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 state fiscal years. APPROVED by Governor May 23, 2024 EFFECTIVE August 7, 2024(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)

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