Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant

Iowa Comprehensive Literacy State Development

In 2024, the state of Iowa was awarded a total of $24 million from the federal competitive Comprehensive Literacy State Development grant. This award includes $4 million in planning subgrants and the opportunity for an additional $5 million annually in implementation subgrants over four years, 2025 through 2029, to support Iowa school districts and public charter schools to strengthen literacy programs for students ages Birth-Grade 12.

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Subgrantee Awards

Twenty-eight districts and public charter schools were selected for an initial planning subgrant to support costs associated with local literacy plan development, including hiring literacy consultants, providing professional development on the Science of Reading for Literacy Leadership Team members and attending evidence-based professional learning events in partnership with the Department. 

  • Belmond-Klemme Community School District
  • Charles City Community School District
  • Clarinda Community School District
  • Council Bluffs Community School District
  • Denison Community School District
  • Des Moines Public Schools
  • Dubuque Community School District
  • Eagle Grove Community School District
  • Essex Community School District
  • Estherville Lincoln Central Community School District
  • Fort Dodge Community School District
  • Graettinger-Terril Community School District
  • Great Oaks High School and Career Center Des Moines
  • Keokuk Community School District
  • Knoxville Community School District
  • Lamoni Community School District
  • Marshalltown Community School District
  • Mormon Trail Community School District
  • Ottumwa Community School District
  • Red Oak Community School District
  • Riverside Community School District
  • River Valley Community School District
  • Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District
  • Saydel Community School District
  • Seymour Community School District
  • Spencer Community School District
  • South Page Community School District
  • Storm Lake Community School District

The amount awarded to each successful applicant for the initial planning subgrant varies based on the student population served and the details outlined in each respective applicant’s plan. Awardees that demonstrate completion of the planning subgrant expectations will have the opportunity to apply for additional implementation subgrants over four years through 2029. 

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Subgrantee Map

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Goals of the Iowa CLSD Grant

  1. Improve the internal systems of Iowa schools and early learning programs serving disadvantaged students to accelerate improvement in literacy and ELA outcomes, particularly targeting schools and early childhood education sites in high-need areas, including both urban and rural areas.
  2. Ensure disadvantaged students have equitable access to highly effective instructional leaders, educators, and early care providers trained in the Science of Reading and evidence-based practices.
  3. Ensure scientifically aligned and evidence-based literacy resources and learning tools are accessible to all stakeholders, especially for disadvantaged families and caregivers of young children.

Comprehensive State Literacy Plan (CSLP)

Local Education Agencies (LEAs) who have been awarded as subgrantees of the GLSD grant will align their Local Literacy Plans to the state’s Comprehensive State Literacy Plan (CSLP). The CSLP focuses on equipping educators, engaging families, and aligning resources to create a coherent system that addresses the needs of all students. To support local literacy efforts, access the Iowa CSLP Brief and the full version of the Iowa CSLP.

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