Background
Summer learning loss, commonly referred to as the “Summer Slide,” is the phenomenon through which a student loses achievement gains (most notably in reading and math) made during the school year. The loss of academic skills has the potential to compound over the course of a child’s K-12 journey. Younger students and low-income students are the most prone to summer learning loss.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the already-existing problem with summer learning loss. As a result, the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction – in alignment with our mission and vision – is dedicating resources to provide North Dakota students with increased summer literacy opportunities.
Details
North Dakota public libraries and schools that participate in summer reading challenges or other engagement activities, including the annual College SAVE Summer Reading Champions Campaign, are eligible to be considered for grants awarded as reimbursements. At the end of the challenge/engagement period (but no later than August 5, 2024), participating entities must complete and submit a “Summary of Engagement” form to NDDPI. When submitting the form, please include any substantiating documentation, such as time logs, attendance rosters, etc., that quantify the impact of your engagements. As the form is a summary, it should describe what events/activities/engagements have taken place; it is not intended to be an overview of your plan. At the time of submission, applicants will be able to provide an overview of any unfinished plans/initiatives that will take place after the application deadline. NOTE: Grantees must have an active sam.gov unique entity identifier (UEI) to apply for and receive funds.
- Applicants will be notified of their award status by August 16, 2024.
- Grant awards are not guaranteed for each applicant.
- Award amounts are subject to DPI discretion and availability of funds.
- Funds may be used specifically to cover the costs of public and school library resource materials.
- Grant recipients must submit a signed grant award and supporting documentation (receipts for resource materials) to receive grants (as reimbursement).
- Funds must be expended by September 30, 2024, and requests for reimbursement must be submitted by December 13, 2024.
Contact Jennifer Odell for more information.
2024 Summer Reading Grant Program