LPS seeks up to $1 million from NDE for comprehensive literacy staff development

Lincoln Public Schools staff requested board approval to apply for the Nebraska Department of Education’s comprehensive literacy staff development grant, which the staff said can provide up to $1,000,000 for the district for the next school year. The district described the application as part of a larger statewide literacy initiative; staff said the statewide program will provide $11 million per year across Nebraska for five years and that NDE has secured funding for the first two years so far.

“We’re seeking board approval for LPS to apply for the comprehensive literacy staff development grant, with up to $1,000,000 in funding, through the next school year,” a district presenter said. Staff explained the grant would support professional learning in evidence-based literacy instruction “through the lens of the science of reading” and that the district plans to use assessment data to evaluate and sustain improvements after grant funding ends. Staff said the initial emphasis would be on early grades (K–3) but that the grant could support k–12 professional learning if awarded.

The board moved to approve the application in a vote; the motion carried (roll-call vote recorded as yes from board members present). Board members asked whether the grant’s multiyear funding is secure; staff said NDE confirmed funding for the first two years of the five-year initiative. Staff indicated evaluation and sustainability planning are part of the grant application.