SF2353

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to establish a grant program aimed at supporting community literacy initiatives across Minnesota. The bill allocates funds specifically for enhancing literacy development among children and families through community efforts.

Main Provisions

• Funding Allocations: The bill appropriates funds from the general fund to the Minnesota Department of Education for the fiscal years specified to support these initiatives.

• Use of Funds: Grant recipients are required to use the funds for community-based public awareness and family literacy initiatives. This includes:

  • Developing and distributing literacy guides and resources that align with the Read Act standards.
  • Providing training sessions for schools and community organizations on effective use of these resources.
  • Distributing literacy toolkits and guides through schools and community channels to ensure accessibility.

• Competitive Grant Process: The bill requires the implementation of a competitive grant process to broaden community-led literacy efforts, favoring proposals that show expertise in developing literacy resources and a track record of success.

• Afterschool Pilot Programs: Up to $200,000 of the funds are designated for developing afterschool pilot programs focused on improving student literacy outcomes, particularly for students at risk of not meeting grade-level proficiency. Organizations applying must demonstrate capability in delivering quality, research-based educational programs.

• Teacher Support: Grants may also be used for coaching and mentoring teachers who have undergone professional development to enhance their ability to support underserved communities in improving literacy rates.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill reinforces and aligns with the existing Read Act (Minnesota Statutes sections 120B.118 to 120B.124), emphasizing evidence-based literacy practices.
• It introduces new funding opportunities for community literacy initiatives through a state competitive grant program, which were not specified in previous legislation.

Relevant Terms

community literacy, Read Act, grant program, evidence-based literacy, public awareness resources, afterschool programs, professional development, grade-level proficiency, underserved communities, literacy instruction.