This bill, H.F. No. 1408, proposes the establishment of a grant program to support community literacy initiatives in Minnesota and appropriates funds for this purpose.

Key Provisions:

1. Funding Allocation:

   • A total of $10,000,000 is appropriated from the general fund to the Minnesota Department of Education.
   • The funding is intended for grants that support community-based literacy efforts.

2. Use of Grant Funds:

   • Developing and distributing literacy and grade-level guides to schools, libraries, and community organizations.
   • Providing public awareness resources, including literacy toolkits for families.
   • Training educators, community groups, and libraries on how to use literacy materials effectively.
   • Schools may distribute literacy resources to students and families at their discretion.

3. Competitive Grant Process:

   • The commissioner must establish a grant program to enhance local literacy efforts.
   • Grants must align with the Read Act (Minnesota Statutes 120B.118 to 120B.124) and emphasize evidence-based literacy practices.
   • Preference is given to applicants with expertise in literacy resources for families.

4. Afterschool Pilot Programs:

   • Up to $200,000 of the 2026 fiscal year funding may be used for afterschool pilot programs.
   • Eligible programs must:
     • Use research-based learning curricula with proven success in improving student literacy.
     • Provide professional development for educators.
     • Offer multicultural, project-based reading and writing supports.
     • Align with evidence-based reading strategies as set in the Read Act.

5. Teacher Coaching & Mentoring:

   • A portion of the grant may fund coaching and mentoring for teachers trained under the Read Act.
   • Focuses on supporting underserved students and communities.
   • Ensures sustained improvement in literacy instruction.

6. Funding Availability:

   • This is a one-time appropriation, available until June 30, 2027.

Summary:

This bill funds community-driven literacy initiatives in Minnesota by supporting public awareness, resources, training, and afterschool programs. It emphasizes evidence-based strategies aligned with the Read Act to improve student literacy, particularly for underserved communities.