Stronger Connections Grant available early 2023

11/21/2022

The Ohio Department of Education received a federal allocation of $35 million to provide students with safe and healthy learning environments that prepare them for success. The award is part of the Stronger Connections Grant program authorized under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments are associated with improved academic achievement and emotional well-being of students. These environments also are associated with reductions in disciplinary actions, as described in this letter from the U.S. Department of Education.

The Stronger Connections Grant is a supplement to the Title IV, Part A, Student Support and Academic Enrichment program. Local Education Agencies (LEAs) that meet specific criteria indicating they are “high need” for school health and safety will receive these funds through a competitive grant.

The Department will seek stakeholder feedback regarding proposed program criteria, grant eligibility and the draft application in the coming weeks. The Department will make the grant application available to LEAs by early 2023.

Contact strongerconnections@education.ohio.gov with questions.