English language acquisition: state formula grant program

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) received a $65.1 million English Language Acquisition State Grants award (CFDA 84.365) from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of English Language Acquisition, effective July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. This formula grant funds comprehensive language instruction educational services designed to help English learners, including immigrant children and youth, achieve English language proficiency while meeting challenging state academic standards. Under the program requirements, NYSED must expend at least 95 percent of its allocation through sub-grants to Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) and other eligible entities that directly serve English learner populations.

NYSED distributed these funds to numerous school districts and educational institutions across New York State, including major urban districts such as New York City Department of Education, Syracuse City School District, Rochester City School District, and Buffalo City School District, as well as numerous suburban and rural school districts. Sub-awarded entities utilized the funding to implement language instruction programs, provide professional development for educators, develop English language curricula, support parent engagement initiatives, and deliver technology-based learning programs. The sub-awards, issued between January and March 2026, enabled districts to strengthen educational services for English learners through direct instructional support, academic enrichment, and comprehensive language development initiatives aligned with state proficiency standards.