Tribal Early Literacy & Language Revitalization
Early literacy skills are foundational for academic success and lifelong learning. For American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) students, language is central to culture and identity, making it an essential part of literacy development. Literacy shapes how students understand, communicate, and engage with the world. Integrating tribal languages into literacy instruction strengthens academic skills while deepening students’ sense of belonging and connection to their ways of knowing and being.
However, statewide assessments from the 2023-24 school year indicate that 22% of AI/AN third graders in Oregon achieved proficiency in English Language Arts, compared to 39% of all students (Oregon Statewide Report Card 2023-24). These data highlight the importance of expanding culturally responsive literacy initiatives that support AI/AN students in building strong foundational literacy skills while honoring their linguistic and cultural heritage.
To address these needs, the Tribal Early Literacy Grants were established under House Bill 3198 as part of the broader Early Literacy Success Initiative. In the 2023-25 biennium, $2 million ($222,222 for each tribe) was set aside to support K-3 early literacy efforts for the nine federally recognized Tribes in Oregon. These grants also uplift the ongoing work of Tribes to preserve and revitalize their languages, ensuring that literacy instruction is rooted in the cultural and linguistic traditions that are vital to AI/AN communities.
Each Tribe designs its own literacy initiatives to reflect its educational priorities and cultural values. These efforts focus on:
Strengthening foundational literacy skills for young learners
Integrating Tribal languages into literacy instruction
Engaging families and communities as key partners in children’s literacy development
Providing tutoring and extended learning support to enhance student literacy skills
Offering professional development to support educators in implementing culturally responsive literacy practices
By centering Indigenous knowledge, culturally responsive teaching, and community-driven literacy practices, these initiatives not only address current literacy challenges but also foster long-term success for all students. When Native students thrive, all students benefit. These approaches create richer learning environments that support engagement, understanding, and academic growth for everyone.
Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) for Tribal Early Literacy Grants
Amended rules have been filed to ensure tribes can fully access their federal indirect cost rate. Initially, Tribal Grants were included in the Community Grant rules, making it necessary to establish standalone rules that better reflect and honor tribal sovereignty. The newly established rules ensure that Tribal Early Literacy grants are treated separately from Community Grants, aligning with the unique governance and operational needs of Tribes.
OAR 581-017-0805: Authorizes the use of Tribal federal indirect rates.
OAR 581-017-0807: Establishes Tribal Early Literacy grant rules as standalone, separate from Community Grants.
This webpage will continue to be updated as this work evolves.
For questions or more information, please contact ODE.EarlyLit@ode.oregon.gov