Description

The Stronger Connections Subgrant Program is funded by the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), authorized by Title IV, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), and administered by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE).

The purpose of the Stronger Connections Subgrant Program, as stated in the frequently asked questions, is to provide students with safer and healthier learning environments and fund only activities allowable under section 4108 of the ESEA. Subgrant funds must be used to develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive programs within high need LEAs.

Program Office

Office of Student Support

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants are South Carolina LEAs (school districts) that demonstrate a high need as identified by 1) a high percentage of students living in poverty (40 percent or higher) and 2) either a high rate of bullying/harassment, a high rate of chronic absenteeism, or a high rate of exclusionary discipline. See pages 47-48 of the RFP for a list of eligible LEAs.

Total Funding Available

Approximately $5,500,000

Funding Detail

Approximately 13 subgrants, with awards ranging from $50,000 to $450,000. Award amounts will be determined based on the quality of applications received and total funding requested.

Project Term

July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026

Application Due Date

June 13, 2025

Technical Assistance Session

The SCDE’s Office of Student Support presented a pre-application technical assistance webinar on May 21, 2025. Email strongerconnections@ed.sc.gov to access the recording.

Documents

Request for Proposals (DOCX, 1.06mb - NEW 5/23/2025)

Frequently Asked Questions (PDF, 18.3kb - 5/8/25)

Application Link

Budget Narrative Template (XLS, 19.9kb - 5/8/25)

Program Web Page

South Carolina School Safety