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Early Literacy Success Community Grants


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The Early Literacy Success Initiative Community Grants is a competitive funding program for eligible Community-Based Organizations serving children in Pre-K through 3rd grade. The initiative builds a shared, research-based understanding of early literacy development and strengthens the interconnected roles of families, communities, and schools in promoting literacy success.

Through these grants, ODE will:

  • Strengthen relationships, communication, and resource sharing between schools, families, and communities.
  • Align and enhance formal and informal early literacy practices.
  • Develop culturally and linguistically responsive programs and services that advance literacy outcomes for young learners.

The grant focuses on three core goals: 

  1. Expand access to culturally and linguistically responsive early literacy programs for children in the early elementary grades by:
    • Promoting meaningful engagement of families and caregivers.
    • Offering research-aligned training and coaching for direct service staff.
  2. Design and implement inclusive, statewide programs that engage parents and children in early literacy activities tailored to local community needs.
  3. Provide high-dosage tutoring opportunities outside of the school day, supported by comprehensive training to ensure tutors are equipped to deliver instruction using research-aligned literacy strategies.


In March of 2025, 13 Grantees were identified as Cohort 1 for implementation of the Grant throughout the 2025-27 biennium.




Community Early Literacy Guidebook

The Community Early Literacy Guidebook is a foundational tool for organizations implementing early literacy programs across Oregon. It outlines key domains and indicators that define program quality and effectiveness, serving as a resource to design new programs, evaluate current efforts, and engage in meaningful self-assessment. The guidebook supports continuous improvement by helping organizations identify strengths and opportunities for growth in serving children, families, and communities.



Oregon’s Early Literacy Framework

The Oregon Early Literacy Framework is a guiding resource for communities, families, and partners working to strengthen early literacy beyond the school setting. While developed for educators, it offers valuable insights for anyone supporting children’s literacy grounded in the science of reading. Sections 1: Student Belonging and 2: Community Partnerships are especially relevant for Community Early Literacy Grants, emphasizing inclusive learning environments and strong partnerships between schools, families, and community organizations.


Grant Program Contacts:

Krista Whitney, Education Specialist-2 Program Lead (krista.whitney@ode.oregon.gov) 

Gina Kim-Le, Policy Analyst-4 Fiscal Lead (gina.kimle@ode.oregon.gov)