Article

State Education Grants to Monitor and Access in 2025

Dec 12, 2024

As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time for local education agencies, administrators, and educators to plan for upcoming grant opportunities in 2025. States are unveiling a range of funding initiatives designed to support literacy, high-impact tutoring, and innovative learning models. Here are some key programs to watch out for:

1. Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant

The $194 million CLSD grant, awarded in September 2024, marks the second round of this federal competitive funding opportunity focused on improving literacy outcomes for children from birth through grade 12. While the funds have been distributed to 22 states and Washington, D.C., timelines for local education agency (LEA) applications are being rolled out gradually.

What’s Available: At least 95% of state funds must be subgranted to LEAs, prioritizing low-income and high-need students.
Who’s Leading the Way: Kentucky is currently the only state to have opened its Request for Applications (RFA). The FY25 Kentucky Comprehensive Literacy (KyCL) Grant accepts applications through December 18, 2024. Other states are expected to release application details by winter or early spring.

Learn more in this article: Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) Grant: Insights Into the 2024-25 Application Cycle

2. Colorado’s High-Impact Tutoring Program for 2025-26

Colorado is set to open applications for its High-Impact Tutoring Program in January 2025. This initiative aims to support K-12 students, with a preference for grades K-8, in areas such as math, reading, supporting English Language Learners (ELLs), and closing the achievement gap for underserved populations. Program Details:

Budget up to $2,200 per student served per full school year.
Program runs from August 2025 to June 2026.

To meet proposal requirements, districts and schools interested in providing targeted, data-driven tutoring services should review last year's application information before beginning to plan their proposals.

3. Texas LASO Grant Round 4

Texas is gearing up for the fourth round of its LASO (Learning Acceleration Supports Opportunities) grant, which is anticipated to open in early 2025. Based on rounds 1 and 2 of the LASO grant, we can expect the following grants to be available, as seen in each prior round: Blended Learning, Early College High School, School Action Fund, Strong Foundations, and Technology Lending. Potential Additions for Round 4 include:

Pathways in Technology: Supporting tech-focused learning pathways.
Math Supplemental Curriculum Licenses: Expanding access to high-quality math curriculum.
ADSY (Additional Days School Year) Summer Learning Accelerator: Boosting summer learning opportunities.

Districts in Texas should review previous LASO grant guidelines to align proposals with state priorities and prepare for anticipated opportunities in 2025.

4. Kentucky’s Numeracy Counts Legislation (H.B. 162)

The Numeracy Counts legislation passed in 2024 sets an ambitious vision for mathematics proficiency in Kentucky. The program vision is to ensure all students achieve math proficiency by adopting high-quality, evidence-based instructional resources aligned to state math standards. Here's what’s pending:

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) plans to establish grants for local school districts emphasizing grades 4-8. Funding will support the implementation of approved resources and professional learning.
KDE aims to award grants by September 1, 2025, pending final funding approvals.

Districts should follow KDE updates closely and explore high-quality math instructional resources to align with potential grant requirements.

Next Steps

2025 promises many opportunities for schools to access funding that supports literacy development, tutoring, and innovative learning strategies. By staying informed and proactive, districts can position themselves to secure funds and make a meaningful impact on student outcomes. Preparing for these grants requires foresight, collaboration, and a focus on evidence-based practices. Many states provide open office hours, webinars, and other resources to support applicants. Here are some steps to get started:

Monitor State Announcements: Stay connected with your state’s education department for RFAs and application timelines updates.
Identify Needs: Conduct a needs assessment to determine how these grants align with your district’s goals.
Gather Stakeholders: Engage teachers, administrators, and community partners in brainstorming innovative program ideas.
Start Drafting: Begin drafting proposals that align with state priorities, focusing on measurable outcomes and scalability.