The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC)
The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) initiative is the only federal funding source dedicated exclusively to supporting local after-school, before-school, and summer learning programs. The program serves nearly 2 million youth, through grants awarded by state education agencies.
Programs support:
Academic enrichment activities that can help students meet state and local achievement standards.
A broad array of additional enrichment services designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic program, such as: drug and violence prevention programs, career and technical programs, counseling programs, art, music programs, STEM programs, and physical activity and nutrition education programs.
Literacy and related educational development services to the families of children who are served in the program.
Our Story Told with Data
The Paterson Education Fund's 21st Century Community Learning Centers program delivers proven results. With over 80% regular attendance, we've created measurable change: 81% of families report improved attitudes toward learning, 75% see better behavior, and 86% note stronger peer relationships.
Parents consistently praise the program's effectiveness in improving grades and development, with 96% rating our communication as excellent. These outcomes reflect our comprehensive approach to academic enrichment and youth development in safe, structured environments.
As we face funding challenges, this data underscores what's at stake – evidence-based programming that transforms lives and strengthens our community's educational foundation.
Take a look below at our young scholars enjoying summer adventures.
