Alabama was one of the first three states to receive approval of its Reading First Proposal. The award was $15,500,000 for the first year. The grant can be funded for a period of six years if Alabama continues to make progress in raising the number of students who are reading on grade level.
Eighty percent of the Reading First funds go directly to LEA’s. Since each school needs about $200,000 for full implementation, we currently fund 93 schools. Each of these schools uses the funds to:
- Hire a full time reading coach.
- Purchase a scientifically based comprehensive reading program.
- Purchase scientifically based assessments.
- Provide additional funds for staff development.
The remaining twenty percent of Reading First funds is used at the state level to provide technical assistance to the Reading First schools and to provide professional development for all K-3 teachers in the state.
Forty-six LEAs are eligible to apply for Reading First funds. At this time all 46 eligible LEA’s have been awarded sub grants for 93 schools.
** NOTICE**
The Alabama Reading First Initiative has requested that the U. S. Department of Education grant a waiver of the Tydings period for FY 2007 Reading First funds. The request, if granted, would extend the Tydings period for one year (until September 30, 2010).
Sherrill W. Parris. Assistant State Superintendent
of Education for Reading
Phone: (334) 353-1570
Fax: (334) 353-5455
Education Administrator:
-
Judy Stone -
Phone: (334) 353-1570
ARFI Administrator and Specialist for ARFI Schools and Reading Coach Training
Questions may be directed to Ms. Judy Stone or one of the clerical staff at (334) 353-1570 or . Your inquiries are welcome.