The U.S. Department of Education announced today $179 million in grants aimed at supporting academic acceleration, with a focus on improving literacy and high-quality assessment systems. This initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's objective to enhance academic achievement across the nation. The funding includes $149 million for new Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant (CLSD) awards—the largest allocation in the program's history—and nearly $30 million for Competitive Grants for State Assessments (CGSA).
"Literacy is a critical foundation for every student’s success in school and beyond," stated U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. "The Biden-Harris Administration’s American Rescue Plan has helped states and districts make significant gains in academic progress. The new funding announced today will help states, school districts, and communities continue to develop and implement evidence-based literacy interventions, ensuring that we continue to raise the bar for student academic success."
This announcement coincides with Secretary Cardona's 2024 Back to School Bus Tour, themed “Fighting for Public Education.” The tour covers Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, showcasing how schools are utilizing federal investments to promote innovative strategies for academic success.
Under the CLSD program, more than $149 million will be awarded to 23 state educational agencies to support evidence-based literacy practices. These funds aim to ensure students achieve key literacy milestones by promoting equitable access to high-quality instruction and materials.
A detailed list of grantees includes:
- Alaska Department of Education: $10 million
- California Department of Education: $3.8 million
- Colorado Department of Education: $1.5 million
- DC State Education Office: $527 thousand
- Hawai'i State Department of Education: $5.1 million
- Iowa Department of Education: $4 million
- Kentucky Department of Education: $11 million
- Louisiana Department of Education: $11 million
Among others, totaling approximately $149.6 million.
Additionally, nearly $30 million will be distributed through CGSA awards to 10 state educational agencies. These grants aim to develop innovative assessments that provide meaningful data on student progress while enhancing teaching effectiveness.
Grantees include:
- Arkansas Department of Education: $3.6 million
- Connecticut Department of Education: $1.2 million
- Indiana Department of Education: $3 million
Among others, totaling about $29.9 million.
Further resources include guidance for the 21st Century Community Learning Center program and strategies from Full-Service Community Schools aimed at combating chronic absenteeism.
