KY HB609

Establishes the Classroom Library Grant Program to provide science of reading curriculum-aligned books and materials to Kentucky elementary school classrooms (K-5), administered by an external provider under Kentucky Department of Education oversight.

Eligible recipients include certified teachers, media specialists, reading intervention teachers, and literacy support personnel employed in public school districts or public charter schools who teach reading to K-5 students.

Awards up to $500 per eligible recipient per award cycle, with priority given first to K-3 teachers in schools where more than 40% of students qualify for free/reduced-price lunch, then other K-3 teachers, followed by grades 4-5 using the same prioritization.

Appropriates $5,000,000 in General Fund moneys for fiscal year 2027-2028 to implement the program, with funds carrying forward without lapsing.

Requires annual reporting to the Kentucky Department of Education by January 15 (starting 2028) on grant recipients, student populations served, materials provided, and geographic distribution.