Section 32p(6) Literacy Grants

The Section 32p(6) Literacy Grants, authorized under Public Act 120 of 2024, provide funding specifically for improving access to books and other literacy materials for children from birth to age 5. Intermediate school districts (ISDs) may use this funding to support programs including, but not limited to, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Reach Out and Read Michigan, or any other initiative that directly distributes books and literacy materials to young children.

Funding is allocated to ISDs or consortia of ISDs as fiscal agents for their local Great Start Collaboratives. If allocated funds are not sufficient to enroll all interested families within the service area, each ISD is mandated to prioritize enrollment for families demonstrating the highest levels of economic need. Grantees that cannot fully utilize their awarded funds must return the unexpended amounts to the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) for redistribution, as carryover of Section 32p(6) funds is strictly prohibited.

Eligible projects must be budgeted for year-round (12 months) implementation and demonstrate alignment with local early childhood collaborative goals. Grant funds cannot be used to pay for indirect costs, building leases, construction, or stipends to families for participating in programs. Administrative costs for Section 32p grants are limited to a maximum of 10 percent of requested state funds. Grantees are required to submit an annual evaluation to MiLEAP assessing the impact of the funding on increasing literacy access for children birth to age 5.

Applications and associated budgets must be prepared and submitted electronically via the state NexSys grant management system by the specified statutory deadline. Applicants budget for Section 32p(6) funds within NexSys by selecting Apply Now on the Review Grant Selections page and submitting all necessary work plans, budget details, and required attachments.