Nebraska Board Approves $25M Sherwood Foundation Grant for Literacy Initiative

The Nebraska State Board of Education made headlines during its August 2025 meeting by approving significant funding initiatives aimed at enhancing literacy across the state. The board unanimously adopted a motion to accept a transformative $25 million grant from the Sherwood Foundation, aimed at advancing literacy through the Nebraska Literacy Leadership Network.

Board member Deborah expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Sherwood Foundation's investment, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize literacy education in Nebraska. "This isn't a small project or amount. This is a really big deal," she stated, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening the education system. The funding will provide essential training, coaching, and support for school leaders, ensuring that every child receives high-quality reading instruction.

In addition to the literacy grant, the board also approved funding from the CLSD grant, totaling $55 million, to support various educational initiatives. This brings the total investment in literacy to an impressive $80 million. However, some board members raised concerns about the sustainability of such funding and its potential impact on future tax dollars.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to improving literacy in Nebraska, with board members acknowledging the critical role of collaboration between public entities and private foundations. As the board moves forward, the focus will remain on ensuring that these substantial investments lead to lasting improvements in educational outcomes for students across the state.