The purpose of Title IV Part A:  Student Support and Academic Enrichment is to support programs that prevent violence and the illegal use of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs in and around schools. Schools and districts are to involve parents and coordinate with community efforts in developing these programs. The goal is to foster a safe and healthy learning environment that promotes student academic achievement.

On June 25, 2022, President Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), which provides $1 billion in funding to State educational agencies (SEAs) to be distributed under Title IV, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). The BSCA specifies that SEAs must make competitive subgrants to high-need local educational agencies (LEAs), as determined by the SEA, for activities to support safe and healthy students under section 4108 of the ESEA. The Department has designated BSCA section 4108 funds as the Stronger Connections grant program to distinguish it from the regular Title IV, Part A, Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants program, which funds a broader range of activities, including activities to support well-rounded educational opportunities and the effective use of educational technology.

Purpose of the Stronger Connections Grant (SCG) is to:

• Implement comprehensive, evidence-based strategies that meet each student’s social, emotional, physical, and mental well-being needs; create positive, inclusive, and supportive school environments; and increase access to place-based interventions and services. 
• Engage students, families, educators, staff, and community organizations in the selection and implementation of strategies and interventions to create safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments. 
• Design and implement policies and practices that advance equity and are responsive to underserved students, protect student rights, and demonstrate respect for student dignity and potential. 

Instructions and required forms are located in the Request for Application on this page.

KSDE will conduct an informational webinar on Wednesday, August 2nd at 10 a.m. at the following link: https://ksde.zoom.us/j/85071853373. 

Email strongerconnections@ksde.org for grant specific questions.

Application Deadline: September 15th at 5:00 pm

Stronger Connections Grant (SCG) Word / PDF (fillable)

Stronger Connections Grant Webinar (video link)
Stronger Connections Grant Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) (updated 8/16/23)

Title IV Part A Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants Fact Sheet (PDF)
Title IV, Part A Non-Regulatory guidance (external PDF)
Title IV, Part A Hot Topics webinar (YouTube video)
Hot Topics October 3, 2018 Title IV, Part A presentation (external YouTube link)

Kansas Definition of Persistently Dangerous Schools (PDF)

Kansas Persistently Dangerous Schools Statements:

• 2020-2021 (PDF)
• 2019-2020 (PDF)
• 2018-2019 (PDF)
• 2017-2018 (PDF)
• 2016-2017 (PDF)
• 2015-2016 (PDF)
• 2014-2015 (PDF)
• 2013-2014 (PDF)
• 2012-2013 (PDF)
• 2011-2012 (PDF)
• 2010-2011 (PDF)
• 2009-2010 (PDF)
• 2008-2009 (PDF)
• 2007-2008 (PDF)
• 2006-2007 (PDF)

K.S.A. 72-6131 through 72-6134 – Student Safety and Discipline