Full-Service Community School Expansion Act of 2026

Key Points

• The bill authorizes a major ramp-up in federal spending on full-service community schools, starting at $500 million in fiscal year 2027 and growing to $1 billion by fiscal year 2031. This funding would support planning grants, 5-year implementation grants, and expansion grants for schools that serve as neighborhood hubs.
• Eligible schools must have at least 40% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, or be identified as needing additional academic support. This targets the program toward high-poverty and struggling schools.
• The bill defines six core "pillars" that every community school must follow: integrated student supports (like health and mental health care), expanded learning time, active family and community engagement, collaborative leadership, rigorous instruction, and a culture of belonging and safety.
• Each school would get a full-time community school coordinator responsible for managing partnerships, overseeing services, and connecting families to supports like dental care, mental health services, housing assistance, and legal help.
• The bill reserves at least 5% of grant funds for Bureau of Indian Education and tribally-controlled schools, and gives priority to high-need districts, rural areas, and Tribal organizations when awarding grants.
• Up to 15% of funds can go directly to states for 5-year grants to plan, implement, and expand community schools statewide, including creating state-level steering committees and developing long-term sustainability plans.