Read to Achieve (RTA) Grant

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE), through its Office of Teaching and Learning, is offering the Read to Achieve (RTA) grant to support public elementary schools across Kentucky in improving reading outcomes for students in kindergarten through third grade. The RTA program is a targeted intervention initiative focused on providing evidence-based literacy instruction to students who read at low levels and require accelerated learning support. Administered by KDE under the Reading Diagnostic and Intervention Fund authorized by KRS 158.792, the RTA grant provides schools with the resources necessary to implement comprehensive reading programs and structured literacy interventions. Awardees may receive $70,000 per school annually for two years, with an option for a two-year renewal based on implementation fidelity, demonstrated student progress, and availability of funds. Matching funds are required and may include the salary of a reading interventionist. KDE anticipates awarding approximately 150 schools. Funding is contingent upon the development of a tiered instructional delivery system, the use of approved universal screeners and diagnostic assessments, and participation in curriculum-based professional learning. Schools must employ a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) that aligns with the Kentucky Academic Standards for Reading and Writing, integrating Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 instruction and intervention services. Applicants must submit a detailed plan describing literacy needs, the school's MTSS framework, screening and assessment protocols, intervention strategies, and sustainability plans. The application must include professional learning goals, approved vendors for curriculum and training, and strategies to support struggling readers. Priority will be given to schools not funded during the 2022–2026 cycle and to those ranking in the lowest 20% based on third-grade reading assessment data. Professional learning is a cornerstone of the RTA program. All K‑3 reading instructional staff, including administrators, interventionists, and library media specialists, must engage in KDE-approved training in the science of reading, essential reading components, and instructional practices that support the reading-writing connection. Instructional resources used in intervention must meet KDE standards for high-quality instructional resources (HQIRs) and must be evidence-based, reliable, and aligned to the state's academic standards. Schools must also maintain a school-based MTSS leadership team and implement a comprehensive system for monitoring and reporting student progress using valid and reliable data tools. Parents must be informed of available literacy services through digital and non-digital methods, and schools are encouraged to collaborate with community resources to enhance family engagement. KDE requires quarterly financial reports and active participation in evaluation activities, with funding beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, for the initial cycle. Applications must be submitted electronically to KDERFP@education.ky.gov no later than December 2, 2025, by 4:00 p.m. ET. All submissions must include a redacted version and a narrative response short form. KDE will notify awardees by early February 2026. Only schools that meet all formatting and content requirements, including the use of KDE-approved instructional and assessment tools, will be considered for funding.

Ensure screeners and interventions are KDE-approved. Do not submit without redacted version and required forms. Budget must reflect matching sources and align with narrative.