Ohio Department of Education awarded $43 million focused on literacy improvements

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Education has announced it has been awarded two competitive grants by the U.S. Department of Education — for a combined total of $43,200,000. These grants focus on improving student literacy from birth through grade 12.

The Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant provides funding to establish model literacy sites across Ohio in preschools and elementary, middle and high schools. The model sites will concentrate on implementing practices consistent with Ohio’s Plan to Raise Literacy Achievement. The grant also will support professional learning and coaching.

The partnership between the model sites and the Department will allow early childhood programs, districts and families to improve student literacy and increase educational options available to students who have been traditionally underserved.

The literacy development grant is for $42 million over five years. Activities will begin in January 2020.

The Model Demonstration Projects for Early Identification of Students with Dyslexia Grant aims to improve the literacy of students with — or at risk for — dyslexia. Nationally, it has been estimated approximately 10 percent of students have dyslexia, a learning disability that can cause problems with reading, writing and spelling.

This grant will support pilot programs to address the literacy needs of students in three model schools (preschool through grade 1). These schools will offer professional learning and support for teachers, coaches and principals, along with regional supports focused on instruction for children with dyslexia.

The grant involving the early identification of students with dyslexia is for $1.2 million over four years. Activities in the three elementary schools will start in January 2020.

“Literacy is truly the foundation of a solid education,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “By helping children learn and by meeting their unique needs, Ohio’s teachers are giving children the opportunity to ultimately pursue their dreams. These grants will help establish model programs that could be replicated across the state.”

“Ohio’s strategic plan for education, Each Child, Our Future, developed by the State Board of Education, includes literacy as an essential component. These grants will support an aggressive agenda to improve student’s reading skills,” said State Board President Laura Kohler.

“Ohio’s success with these grant applications reflects recognition of the great work already happening in the state,said Paolo DeMaria, state superintendent of public instruction. “Everywhere I go, there is energy focused on helping students master reading. It’s essential to each child’s success.”

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