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Tag: Grant

  • Jason Reynolds/Simon & Schuster Travel Grant Open

    Are you a Black or African American librarian focused on youth and teen services, or a school media specialist? If so, you might be eligible for a fantastic opportunity! The American Library Association (ALA) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Jason Reynolds / Simon & Schuster Travel Grant.

    Funding for Professional Development

    This grant is designed to help Black or African American professionals in youth and teen library services, as well as school media specialists, attend the prestigious 2026 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition in Chicago. The goal is to provide financial support for expenses associated with attending this key industry event.

    Up to five recipients will be awarded grants ranging from $1,500 to $3,000. This funding can cover essential costs such as travel, hotel accommodations, conference registration fees, and even entry to the highly regarded Coretta Scott King Award Breakfast.

    Supporting Black Voices in Literature

    Named after the celebrated children’s author Jason Reynolds, the grant is funded by Simon & Schuster and administered by the ALA. Reynolds himself expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to give back, stating, “I’m humbled by the opportunity to give back to some of the folks who’ve given so much, not just to me but to our children.” He emphasized the conference’s importance for librarians to gain encouragement and inspiration.

    This initiative is part of the ALA’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity and representation within the library community. Last year, a similar grant enabled Black or African American youth and teen services librarians to attend the ALA Conference in Philadelphia. Investing in these professionals is crucial for educating future generations.

    Application Details

    The application window is open now and will close on December 15, 2025. The five lucky grant recipients are scheduled to be announced on February 16, 2026. Awardees will also be recognized during the Coretta Scott King Awards Breakfast at the conference.

    If you or someone you know fits the criteria, this is a wonderful chance to enhance professional development and connect with peers in the library field. More information can be found on the ALA website.

    Are you a librarian eligible for this grant? Let us know in the comments if you plan to apply!

  • NJ Kindergarteners Get College Savings Accounts

    Big news for the future of education in Newark, New Jersey! Starting this fall, incoming kindergarten students will be given a head start on their college journey thanks to a generous $150,000 grant from The Prudential Foundation. This initiative is set to make a significant impact on the financial futures of thousands of young students.

    Newark Saves College Savings Program Launched

    The grant will be channeled through the Newark Public Schools via the Newark Saves College Savings Program. Beginning in September 2025, approximately 3,000 incoming kindergarteners will have college savings accounts established for them. This program is a powerful commitment to building strong financial foundations for the community.

    Shané Harris, vice president of inclusive solutions and president of The Prudential Foundation, announced the initiative on August 20th, highlighting its alignment with the foundation’s global commitment to financial security. The program is also supported by a partnership with the FOCUS Hispanic Center for Community Development.

    Investing in the Future Class of 2038

    Newark Public Schools Superintendent, Roger León, emphasized the long-term vision of the program. “It’s not too soon to start thinking about 2038, when this year’s kindergartners will be starting college,” he explained. As more Newark students are admitted to higher education each year, this program is designed to help alleviate the cost barrier that often prevents students from attending or completing college.

    Families who meet the eligibility requirements will be enrolled in 529 college savings accounts with Equitable, a financial services company, within a year of the program’s launch. Beyond the savings accounts, the program will also provide valuable financial literacy resources, including workshops and college planning sessions, available at the district’s elementary schools.

    Community and Corporate Support

    Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka praised the initiative, stating, “We do our best in Newark to grow our children into well-rounded adults with every life opportunity available to them. This brilliant innovation helps resident families grow their children’s college funds while the students ascend to build on their academic achievements.”

    He further commended The Prudential Foundation’s “unshakable commitment to the highest caliber of corporate social responsibility,” noting the seed money, financial literacy program, and savings incentives provided. District Parent Liaisons, working with FOCUS and Equitable, will guide families through the savings process, ensuring the program’s success.

    What do you think about this initiative to provide college savings accounts for kindergarteners? Share your thoughts in the comments below!