Section 8423.

(a) The department shall select grantees to participate in the 21st Century High School After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens program from among applicants that apply on forms and in a manner prescribed by the department. To the extent possible, the selection of applicants by the department shall result in an equitable distribution of grant awards to applicants in northern, southern, and central California, and in urban, suburban, and rural areas of the state.

(b) The department shall consider the following criteria in awarding grants:

(1) Strength of the educational element and alignment with state academic standards, preparation for the high school exit examination, and other academic interventions.

(2) Strength of the enrichment element.

(3) Evidence of community collaboration, including demonstrated support of the principal and staff from participating schools.

(4) A description of the manner in which programs will provide a safe physical and emotional environment and opportunities for relationship building, and promote active pupil engagement.

(5) A description of the manner in which the program design will be periodically reexamined in order to maintain strong pupil interest.

(6) A description of plans to attract pupils, particularly pupils considered at risk or in need of academic support, on a regular basis.

(c) The application shall certify all of the following:

(1) Completion of an assessment of pupils' preferences for program activities.

(2) Access to, and availability of, computers and technology.

(3) Inclusion of a nutritional snack and a physical activity element.

(4) That the program will meet all of the evaluation requirements.

(5) Fiscal accountability.

(Amended by Stats. 2006, Ch. 380, Sec. 4. Effective September 21, 2006.)