MN SF2353

Appropriates $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the general fund to the Department of Education for community literacy initiative grants, available until June 30, 2027

Grants must support community-based public awareness and family literacy initiatives, including developing literacy and grade-level guides for distribution to schools, libraries, and community organizations that align with science of reading standards under the Read Act

Up to $200,000 of the FY2026 appropriation may fund after-school pilot programs for organizations with proven track records in research-based literacy curricula serving students at risk of not achieving grade-level reading proficiency

Commissioner must establish a competitive grant process prioritizing applicants with expertise in developing literacy guides and public awareness resources, emphasizing evidence-based practices aligned with the Read Act

Grant funds may also be used for coaching and mentoring teachers who received Read Act professional development training, with focus on supporting underserved students and communities