The Kentucky Read to Achieve (RTA) Reading Diagnostic and Intervention Grant provides competitive funding to support primary (K-3) students who need accelerated learning in reading. Schools receiving this grant must implement:
- A KDE-approved comprehensive reading program for all students per KRS 158.305 (5)(b). Approved comprehensive reading programs are listed on the Early Literacy Resources webpage.
- A KDE- approved structured literacy reading intervention program for students in Tiers 2 and 3 of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) per KRS 158.305 (1)(e). The state-approved intervention list, legislative basis, and directions for using the approved intervention spreadsheet can be found on the Early Literacy Intervention webpage.
- A comprehensive system for informing parents of struggling readers of the available family literacy services within the district and community.
Established under Senate Bill 19 in 2005, the RTA program helps schools address the needs of struggling readers. Grant recipients must provide matching funds and sustain all costs related to professional learning and structured literacy interventions for the two-year grant period. Renewal for an additional two years is available, contingent on meeting all grant requirements, demonstrating student progress, and maintaining compliance with
KRS 158.792 Section 3(b).
RTA program and budget concerns, including questions on amending your program or budget, should be directed to the RTA Grant Administrator.
School administrators and K-3 reading instructional staff receiving this grant must engage in ongoing high-quality professional learning in the RTA key areas of professional learning (building knowledge in the science of reading, implementing essential components of reading and evidence based instruction for the reading-writing connection) as well as curriculum-based and assessment literacy professional learning per
KRS 158.792 (3)(a)(8). Curriculum Based Professional Learning (CBPL) applies to the approved comprehensive reading and structured-literacy reading intervention programs unique to each RTA school. Approved CBPL providers include all vendors of approved comprehensive reading and structured literacy intervention programs. Additional approved CBPL providers can be found in the
Rivet Partner Guide. Approved assessments and related professional learning for administration and interpretation can be found on the
Early Literacy Screening Assessments webpage.
Building Knowledge in the Science of Reading Approved Vendors
Implementing Essential Components of Reading Approved Vendors
Evidence-based Instruction: Reading-Writing Connection Approved Vendors
Assessment Data
Student assessment (universal screener and diagnostic) and intervention progress must be recorded and monitored for students receiving RTA intervention services throughout the school year.
Record universal screener and diagnostic data in the Infinite Campus Assessment Center. Submit scores by October 30, February 15 and a third (universal screener only) score by May 30. For batch upload instructions, refer to the
KDE Literacy and Numeracy Test Recording guidance.
Intervention Data
Record all student intervention data in the Infinite Campus Intervention Tab, including:
- Program Details: Used program and material code.
- Service Specifications: Frequency and duration.
- Student Progress: Tier movement or progress monitoring results.
- Notes (Optional): Additional student needs.
Deadlines and Requirements:
- September 30: Enter initial intervention progress monitoring data.
- Enrollment: Update new student records immediately upon enrollment in RTA interventions.
- Year-Round: Document progress monitoring consistently.
For detailed instructions, refer to the
Data Standard - Intervention - MAF or RTA guidance.
Read to Achieve student information on the Assessment and Intervention Tabs must be current and complete when school dismisses in the spring.
ALL RTA Schools are REQUIRED to participate in statewide evaluations of their RTA state funded intervention at the request of the KDE and/or the Kentucky Reading Research Center.
The Kentucky Reading Research Center (KY RRC) was established under
KRS 164.0207 (2024) to support educators in implementing reliable, replicable evidence-based reading programs, and to promote literacy development, including cooperating with other entities that provide family literacy services. The KY RRC collaborates with the Kentucky Department of Education to assist districts with students functioning at low levels of reading skills to assess and address identified literacy needs.
RTA schools are also required to sign and submit
annual assurances, detailing specific grant-related requirements and expectations.
To request an annual report or for any Read to Achieve related questions, please contact the
RTA administrator.