Sacramento converts ACES grants from agencies to direct school district funding

During the Robla School District Board Meeting on May 2, 2025, significant discussions centered around the transition of the After School Education and Safety (ACES) grant, which has been a vital resource for the community for over 20 years. Historically, this grant was awarded to the City of Sacramento's START program, allowing them to provide essential after-school services to students in the Robla community. However, recent changes in legislation, specifically Proposition 28, have shifted the grant's administration directly to school districts, marking a pivotal change in how these funds will be managed and utilized.

The ACES grant, which supports after-school programs, will now require the Robla School District to take on the oversight and administrative responsibilities previously handled by the city agency. This transition means that the district will need to develop new procedures for managing the grant, including enrollment processes and attendance requirements for students. The total amount of the grant is approximately $753,000, which underscores the importance of establishing a clear and effective plan for its distribution and implementation.

The board discussed the implications of this change, emphasizing the need for collaboration with the California Department of Education and the City of Sacramento to ensure a smooth transition. The district's ability to provide services directly on school campuses is seen as a significant advantage, allowing for more accessible support for students and families.

In addition to the ACES grant discussion, the board addressed the importance of maintaining high-quality after-school programs that cater to the needs of the community. The shift in grant management is expected to enhance the district's capacity to tailor services more closely to the specific needs of Robla students.

As the district prepares to navigate this new responsibility, the board's discussions highlight the ongoing commitment to supporting student success through effective after-school programming. The next steps will involve finalizing the grant management process and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged in the transition. This change represents not only a logistical shift but also an opportunity for the Robla School District to strengthen its role in the community and enhance educational outcomes for its students.