Middle School Foundation Academies (MSFA) Overview

The Middle School Foundation Academies (MSFA) Planning and Implementation Grant is a strategic initiative by the California Department of Education (CDE) aimed at enhancing career readiness among middle school students. Funded through Proposition 98 under the Career Technical Education (CTE) Initiative, the program allocates $1,050,000 to support 14 planning grants of $25,000 each and 14 implementation grants of $50,000.

Program Overview

The MSFA grant program is designed to establish career-focused academies within middle schools, providing students with early exposure to various career fields and equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge for future success. These academies aim to create a seamless transition into high-quality CTE pathways at the high school level, fostering engagement and preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.

Grant Elements

The MSFA grant encompasses two primary phases: planning and implementation.

Planning Grants ($25,000): These grants support local educational agencies (LEAs), including school districts and charter schools serving middle school grades, in developing a comprehensive plan for establishing a Middle School Foundation Academy. Activities may include curriculum development, professional development for educators, acquisition of instructional materials and equipment, and facilitation of collaborative planning among staff.

Implementation Grants ($50,000): Following the planning phase, implementation grants assist LEAs in executing their academy plans. This includes launching the academy, delivering career exploration and CTE courses, and aligning programs with existing high school CTE pathways to ensure continuity and coherence in students' educational trajectories.

Importance of the Grant

The MSFA grant is pivotal in addressing the need for early career exploration and technical education in middle schools. By introducing students to various career options and providing them with relevant skills and knowledge, the program aims to increase student engagement, reduce dropout rates, and better prepare students for high school, post-secondary education, and the workforce. Furthermore, the grant emphasizes the importance of supplementing existing resources rather than supplanting them, ensuring that the funds contribute to the enhancement of current programs.

Application and Contact Information

Eligible LEAs interested in applying for the MSFA grant should refer to the official Request for Applications (RFA) document for detailed information on application procedures, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. For further assistance, applicants can contact Teri Alves at MiddleGrades@cde.ca.gov or call 916-322-0374.

MSFA Cohort 9 Application

By investing in the development of Middle School Foundation Academies, the CDE seeks to lay a strong foundation for students' future academic and career success, ensuring that they are well-prepared to navigate the demands of the modern workforce.