Prince George board approves Title I–IV grant applications to fund reading specialists, EL supports and staff development

The Prince George County School Board unanimously approved on May 13 the district’s Title I, II, III and IV federal grant applications and related program budgets.

Staff explained Title I funding supports elementary reading specialists and instructional materials; Title II and a $58,590 transfer from Title IV will support professional development, tuition reimbursement and endorsements for licensed staff; Title III will bolster services for 155 English Learner (EL) students in 19 languages through before‑school tutoring and a summer program; and Title IV funds help with professional learning and student supports.

A staff member noted that many new EL students arrived this year and that the district uses tutors and targeted summer programs to support language acquisition. The district said tutors are paid by the hour (the staff cited $25 per hour for tutoring) and that the summer program is a half‑day structure that costs roughly $1,200 per participant under the current model. Staff also noted the requirement to provide certain services for the homeless set‑aside and family engagement programming under Title I.

Board members moved and seconded approval of the grant applications and cover sheets; the motion passed on roll call with all members voting yes. Staff will upload the applications in the state system and proceed with program implementation pending federal allocations.