Funding READS

Practical options for schools, districts, and community organizations

Title I, Part A

A district might use Title I funds to provide READS to eligible students in Title I schools, particularly students who are below grade level in reading or at risk of falling behind academically. In a schoolwide program, READS would need to be connected to the school’s comprehensive needs assessment and schoolwide plan. In a targeted-assistance program, services would generally need to focus on eligible students.

21st Century Community Learning Centers funds

Districts or community organizations that operate 21st Century Community Learning Centers may be able to incorporate READS into an existing afterschool or summer program. READS could serve as the structured literacy component of an existing summer program or be offered to students enrolled in a 21st CCLC program. Districts that do not operate a 21st CCLC program may wish to explore partnerships with current grantees or community-based organizations.

State literacy, summer-learning, or afterschool grants

States may offer grants or other funding opportunities for literacy, summer learning, expanded learning, or out-of-school-time programs. Districts should monitor state grant announcements and consider partnering with libraries, nonprofit organizations, or regional out-of-school-time networks when those organizations are eligible applicants.

State social-media settlement funds

The Meta settlement identifies after-school and summer programs—including literacy programs—as potential uses of settlement funds. Settlement funds will not necessarily be distributed directly to districts, and each state may establish its own process. Districts should contact their state attorney general’s office, state education agency, legislature, or statewide afterschool network to learn if and when funding opportunities will become available.