21st Century Community Learning Centers
Support for Successful, Independent Learners.
Des Moines Public Schools has been home to 21st Century Community Learning Centers program (21st CCLC) since 2007. The initiative provides academic programming, recreational enrichment, and family literacy to students and families at the following schools:
- Brubaker
- Cattell
- Findley
- Howe
- Jackson
- Jefferson
- Lovejoy
- Madison
- Oak Park
- Park Ave
- Stowe
- Windsor
- Wright
More than 10,000 students have participated in the program since its inception.
The 21st CCLC program provides academic assistance to help students become successful, independent learners. Students in 21st CCLC programs receive tailored, individualized support through coordination and communication between their daytime teachers and their after-school teachers. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) activities are also offered, necessary for students to gain 21st century workforce skills. Other activities include a variety of topics, such as: cooking around the world, financial education, jewelry making, movie making, gardening, physical fitness activities (disc golf, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, dancing, etc.), and personal development building healthy self-esteem and positive relationships.21st CCLC bridges the gap between school, family, and community, forging connections and providing a comprehensive support system to help youth succeed academically and socially.
Des Moines Public Schools 21st CCLC Local Evaluation Form
Grant Notification
We are excited to announce that Des Moines Public Schools has chosen three elementary schools to apply for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21CCLC) federal grant. This competitive grant program provides funding to create or expand afterschool and summer learning opportunities for students, enhancing their educational experience outside of regular school hours. The selected schools for the 2025-2026 school year are: Willard Elementary, Hillis Elementary and Capitol View Elementary.