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
arisde@alsde.edu
Phone: (334) 353-1570
Fax: (334) 353-1539

Education Administrator:

• Judy Stone - jstone@alsde.edu
  Phone: (334) 353-1570
  ARFI Administrator and Specialist for ARFI Schools and Reading Coach Training

Education Specialists:

• Gina Looney - glooney@alsde.edu
  Phone: (334) 353-1570
  Specialist for ARFI Schools and Reading Coach Training
• Karen Rutledge-Bell - krbell@alsde.edu
  Phone: (334) 353-1570
  Specialist for ARFI Schools and Reading Coach Training

Questions may be directed to one of the ARFI Education Specialists listed above or one of the clerical staff at (334) 353-1570 or adriggers@alsde.edu. Your inquiries are welcome.