May 23, 2012
The Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy grant, also referred to as the Keystones to Opportunity grant, is a five-year, competitive federal grant program designed to assist local education agencies in developing and implementing local comprehensive literacy plans.
“I applaud these schools for securing funding to ensure that students have the essential skills to succeed academically,” Tomalis said. “Literacy programs help to improve student reading and comprehension, which could result in higher academic achievement.”
This grant program will support Pennsylvania’s comprehensive approach to improving literacy outcomes for all children, including disadvantaged students, limited English proficiency students and students with disabilities.
This funding will provide the necessary tools to foster 21st century literacy environments where children can develop the reading, writing, speaking, listening and language skills they need to succeed academically.
A total of 149 school districts submitted grant applications.
As one of only six states to receive funding for the first year, Pennsylvania was awarded a total of $38.6 million by the U.S. Department of Education. The grant requires that 95 percent of the award must be driven out to local education agencies.
Funds for the second year are pending release by the federal government, and funding for years three through five is contingent upon the availability of federal funds.
In less than one year, Pennsylvania has been awarded more than $80 million in federal funds to improve educational opportunities for students.
Clarion County - Allegheny-Clarion Valley School District, $739,252
Erie County - Girard School District, $59,691
A nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, the RCWE’s mission is to connect people with jobs through collaborative workforce development efforts and strong partnerships with economic development, business, education, and government sectors in the Northwest Pennsylvania region.