English language acquisition: state formula grant program

The Ohio Department of Education received $13.7 million through the English Language Acquisition State Grants program (CFDA 84.365) administered by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of English Language Acquisition, with an award date of July 1, 2025, and a completion date of September 30, 2026. Under this formula grant, ODE serves as the prime recipient and is required to expend at least 95 percent of the allocation through sub-grants to eligible local educational agencies (LEAs) and other entities that directly deliver English language instruction services. The program funds comprehensive language instruction services designed to help English learners, including immigrant children and youth, achieve English language proficiency while meeting challenging state academic standards. Services supported include English language instruction, academic enrichment programs, professional development for educators, curriculum development, parent engagement initiatives, and technology-based learning programs.

ODE distributed the grant funding to 59 sub-awardees across Ohio, including school districts, charter schools, educational service centers, and community schools. Representative sub-recipients include Columbus City Schools, Canton City School District, Lorain Bilingual Preparatory Academy, Global Ambassadors Language Academy, and numerous local school districts throughout urban, suburban, and rural jurisdictions. These sub-grantees utilize the Title III Language Instruction for English Learners funding to deliver direct instructional services, support programs, and resources specifically targeting the needs of English learner populations in their respective districts and communities, ensuring equitable access to high-quality language acquisition instruction statewide.