Bill > SF2353

This bill establishes a community literacy initiatives grant program through the Minnesota Department of Education, appropriating $1,000,000 in both fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The grant program aims to support community-based literacy efforts, with recipients required to develop and distribute literacy guides and public awareness resources that align with the Read Act's standards. Grant recipients will focus on creating materials that explain reading acquisition, family literacy roles, and supportive activities, and will develop literacy toolkits for families. The Department of Education will establish a competitive grant process that prioritizes applications demonstrating expertise in developing family literacy resources. Up to $200,000 of the 2026 appropriation can be used for after-school pilot programs, with organizations needing to demonstrate proven track records in implementing research-based learning curricula and supporting students at risk of not achieving grade-level reading proficiency. Additionally, grant recipients may use funds for coaching and mentoring teachers to support underserved students and improve literacy instruction, with all activities aligning with evidence-based reading strategies outlined in the Read Act. The appropriation is one-time and available until June 30, 2027.

Budget and Finance

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2353&ssn=0&y=2025