At Distinctive Schools, we believe that high-quality expanded learning opportunities provide students with the additional academic support, enrichment, and experiences they need to thrive both in and beyond the classroom. 

Distinctive Schools intends to submit an application to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for funding through the FY2027 Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program.

If awarded, the grant would support expanded learning opportunities at the following schools:

• CICS Lloyd Bond

• CICS Loomis

• CICS Prairie

• CICS Longwood 

The proposed program is designed to strengthen academic achievement through targeted literacy and mathematics support, engaging enrichment opportunities, career-connected learning experiences, STEM programming, and meaningful family engagement. Programming would be aligned to each school's instructional priorities and focus on supporting students with the greatest academic need while expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities beyond the traditional school day.

This notice is provided in accordance with the requirements of the FY2027 21st Century Community Learning Centers Notice of Funding Opportunity. Following submission to ISBE, a copy of Distinctive Schools' grant application will be available for public review upon request.

For additional information or to request a copy of the submitted application after August 24, 2026, please contact: Molly Quinn, Executive Director of Strategy & AI for Distinctive Schools.