Van Hollen, Cardin Announce $45 Million in Federal Funding for Public School Literacy Program

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) have announced $45 million in federal funding for Maryland public schools. The funding is designated for the Striving Readers Comprehension Literacy Grant Program, a public school initiative designed to advance literacy skills for students from birth through grade 12, most notably for students with disabilities and limited English proficiency.

"Giving our kids the best education from day one is central to growing our economy and ensuring the success of our entire state,"said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committees."By investing in critical reading skills that will carry students throughout their life, we help build a stronger Maryland. I'll keep fighting to invest in all of the schools across the state and make sure all children have the chance at a bright future."

"This federal investment in Maryland's students will help ensure that all our children, in every zip code, have the tools and encouragement they need to read and write with fluency and confidence," said Senator Cardin, a member of the Senate Finance Committee. "Every child, regardless of their family income, circumstances or background deserves a quality education, and that includes fostering the language skills necessary to succeed. This investment will help us live up to that commitment, and I'll keep fighting to ensure public education programs like this one are fully funded in the years to come."

These funds represent the largest grant from the U.S. Department of Education for Maryland in almost three years and will be utilized statewide, with $15 million being awarded each year for three years. Every Maryland school district will be able to compete for funding to meet the literacy needs of their local communities.

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