English language acquisition: state formula grant program

The Department of Education Iowa received a $4.79 million Formula Grant award from the Office of English Language Acquisition (CFDA 84.365) effective July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. This English Language Acquisition State Grants program funds comprehensive language instruction services and academic achievement initiatives designed to help English learners, including immigrant children and youth, attain English language proficiency while meeting challenging state academic standards. The award supports a broad range of educational products and services including English language instruction, academic enrichment programs, professional development for educators, curriculum development, parent engagement initiatives, and technology-based learning programs.

As the State Educational Agency (SEA) prime grantee, the Department of Education Iowa is required to expend at least 95 percent of the award through sub-grants to Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) and other eligible entities that directly deliver services to English learner populations. The award was distributed to 32 sub-grantees, including prominent school districts such as DES Moines Public Schools, Cedar Rapids Community School District, and Sioux City Community School District, as well as Area Education Agencies including Heartland AEA, Prairie Lakes AEA, and Grantwood AEA. All sub-awards were obligated on July 30, 2025, for the English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement, and Academic Achievement program for limited English proficient children, ensuring targeted support for English learner instruction and related educational services across urban, suburban, and rural jurisdictions throughout Iowa.