Charleston County School District launches FY2026 Community Investment application process to strengthen transparency and impact

Charleston County School District (CCSD) has established a formal application process and business rules for Community Investment funding, reinforcing the District’s commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and data-driven decision-making in support of students.

For Fiscal Year 2026, CCSD has budgeted $200,000 in competitive Community Investment funding to support organizations that provide meaningful wraparound services to CCSD students, including programs that promote student health, safety, academic support, and overall well-being.

Organizations seeking funding must submit a completed application by January 30, 2026. Applications will be reviewed as part of the District’s budget process, with funding recommendations presented to the Board of Trustees for approval in March 2026. Approved funds will be disbursed in FY 2026.

“This process ensures that Community Investment funding is aligned with student impact, organizational performance, and responsible stewardship of public dollars,” said Superintendent Anita Huggins. “Our goal is to support partners whose work demonstrably improves outcomes for students across Charleston County.”

Funding decisions will be guided by clearly defined criteria, including:

• Alignment with CCSD student needs and wraparound services;
• Organizational stability and financial health;
• Effectiveness of program spending;
• Demonstrated outcomes and performance data; and
• Compliance with reporting and accountability requirements.

“As stewards of public funds, it is our responsibility to ensure every dollar invested delivers meaningful value for students,” said Chief Financial Officer Daniel Prentice. “This application process establishes clear expectations, consistent evaluation criteria, and strong accountability so we can make informed, data-based funding decisions that align resources with demonstrated impact.”

Organizations receiving funding in FY2026 will be required to submit a performance report by January 2027 as part of the application process for any future funding requests.

Community-based organizations that currently receive or have previously received CCSD funding through a non-competitive process will also be required to submit the applicable application materials to ensure consistent review and accountability.

Complete instructions and the FY2026 application are available on the CCSD website.