State Programs:Education of Homeless Children and Youth

The Illinois State Board of Education is issuing a competitive grant under the Education of Homeless Children and Youth State Grant Program. Eligible applicants (public school districts, charter schools, university laboratory schools, and Regional Offices of Education) may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $500,000 to support services that improve enrollment, attendance, and academic success of homeless students. Grants are awarded for a three‑year period, with the initial award period ending June 30 2027. Applications must be submitted electronically by 4 p.m. on November 23 2026. The program emphasizes direct services (rental assistance, transportation, emergency shelter, case management, tutoring, professional development, and family engagement) and requires quarterly and annual reporting, as well as a final program evaluation. Joint applications are allowed if a memorandum of understanding is provided. • Eligible entities: public school districts, charter schools (state‑authorized), university laboratory schools, Regional Offices of Education. • Funding amount: $10 k – $500 k per award; total program funding $1.5 M. • Project period: up to 12 months for the first year (July 1 2026 – June 30 2027); possible continuation for up to three years. • Required deliverables: quarterly progress & expenditure reports, annual GPRS report, final evaluation. • Application components: uniform application, program narrative, needs assessment, budget summary, attachments (MOU for joint proposals, collaboration docs). • Key performance metrics: serve at least 10 homeless children, provide at least one staff professional‑development event, meet tiered service thresholds. • Deadline: 11/23/2026 4 PM; questions due by 11/16/2026.