PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:
To ensure that every student can read at grade level or above by the end of third grade. The Reading First program will provide assistance to States and districts in establishing reading programs for students in kindergarten through third grade that are based on scientifically based reading research. Reading First also focuses on teacher development and ensuring that all teachers, including special education teachers, have the tools they need to effectively help their students learn to read. The program provides assistance to States and districts in preparing teachers to identify specific reading barriers facing their students.

 ELIGIBLE FUNCTIONAL CATEGORIES:
1. EDUCATION;
- Elementary and Secondary;
- Indian Education;
- Resource Development and Support - Elementary, Secondary Education;
- Teacher Training;

 WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THIS PROGRAM:
- Specialized group (e.g. health professionals, students, veterans);
- Education Professional;
- Education (0-8);

 WHO CAN APPLY:
- Local (includes State-designated Indian Tribes, excludes institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Federally Recognized Indian Tribal Governments;
- U.S. Territories and possessions (includes institutions of higher education and hospitals);
- Specialized group (e.g. health professionals, students, veterans);