End: Friday, August 25, 2023
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 are encouraged to register for the College SAVE Summer Reading Champions Campaign, or complete their own summer reading challenge or engagement activity. At the end of the challenge/engagement period (but no later than August 25, 2023), complete and submit the "Summary of Engagement" form (which will be made available to participating entities) to NDDPI. NDDPI will award grants as reimbursements that may be used specifically to cover the costs of public and school library resource materials. Funds must be expended (and request for reimbursement submitted) by December 31, 2023.
NOTE: In counties where there are no participating libraries, teachers, library media specialists, or school administrators may host a summer reading/literacy initiative of their choice to be held within their community. Educators will need to provide an outline of their plan, the date(s) of engagement, an approximate number of impacted students, and cost estimate to NDDPI. Contact Jennifer Odell for more information. Participating schools will also be eligible for grants as reimbursements that may be used specifically to cover the costs of public and school library resource materials. Funds must be expended (and request for reimbursement submitted) by December 31, 2023.
2023 Summer Reading Challenge Grant Program Eligibility and Guidance