Request for Application
The South-Central Early Learning Hub is funding Kindergarten Partnership and Innovation and Early Literacy Grants for the 2025 to 2027 biennium. Questions about the application can be directed to Athena Wikstrom at athena.wikstrom@douglasesd.k12.or.us and must be received by 5:00 p.m. on February 13, 2026. Submit your application to Athena Wikstrom by 5 p.m. Friday, March 20, 2025.
Focus areas for Birth to Five Early Literacy include the following:
- Establishment or expansion of research-aligned, early literacy-focused professional development opportunities for early learning partners, early childhood educators and / or caregivers. There should be a good faith effort made to align any training intended for early childhood educators with the Oregon Registry System.
- Establishment or expansion of parent/caregiver engagement activities related to literacy. May include evidence-based family education classes, workshops, parent support activities and family activities related to literacy.
- Establishment or expansion of book and / or other literacy material distribution in multiple languages focused on early literacy development.
- Establishment or expansion of cross-sector, regional partnerships with organizations to increase access to books and other literacy resources / materials.
- Engage with Tribal Officials and / or Tribal leaders and cultural experts to understand the specific and cultural needs and preferences of sovereign Tribal Nations and indigenous populations regarding language and literacy.
Focus areas for the Kindergarten Readiness Partnership and Innovation (KPI) include the following:
- Developing system-wide understanding of community, families, early learning and K-12 expectations for early learners and the system supporting them;
- Developing system-wide understanding of gaps and needs of community, families, early learners, the early learning field, and K-12, and
- Aligning policies and programs to provide supportive transitions and continuity of services from early learning and care to K-12 settings.