What is Texas ACE?

The Texas Afterschool Centers on Education (ACE) program is one of the largest statewide afterschool programs in the country, serving over 180,000 students at nearly 1,000 sites. The ACE program is administered by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and is funded through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative of the U.S. Department of Education. Cycles 9 and 10 are currently active.

What We Do

Texas ACE grantees offer free afterschool programming to economically disadvantaged schools across the state. The Texas Education Agency awards 21st Century Community Learning Centers grants as funding is available and partners with Edvance Research to offer technical assistance, professional development and general program support. All grantees adhere to basic program requirements and offer activities focused on four areas:

• Tutorials for students before and after school;

• Enrichment activities for students to explore science, technology and the arts;

• Activities and training that help families support their students to be successful at school; &

• Guidance and field trips that help students and their families access information about college and careers.

The overarching goal of the program is to foster each student’s academic success by improving attendance, behavior and academics which lead to grade level promotion, graduation and helping students be more prepared for college and the workplace.