Illinois § 15

§ 15.

Grants. (a) The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Literacy Advisory Board created by Section 7.2 of the State Library Act, is authorized to award grants that develop, expand, or support adult literacy programs in Illinois through community programs administered by education agencies, libraries, volunteer or community-based organizations, or a coalition of any of those groups. (b) The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Literacy Advisory Board created by Section 7.2 of the State Library Act, is authorized to award grants for workplace programs to public or private employers or entities acting on behalf of a coalition of employers to improve the basic skills of current and prospective employees. Current and prospective employees' lack of basic skills may impede hiring, effective job performance, or eligibility for advancement. Public funds awarded under this grant program must be matched by the business with funds at least equal to the amount of public funds awarded. (c) The Secretary of State is authorized to make family literacy grants that will assist in breaking the intergenerational cycle of illiteracy. The grants must involve an adult literacy component and an entity working with children at risk of school failure. Programs will focus on parents or guardians and children involved in reciprocal learning and teaching. In addition to other grants authorized in this subsection, the Secretary of State may make family literacy grants, upon his or her approval of application from entities, for innovative programming in the area of parent and child learning activities. The Secretary of State shall establish criteria for awarding the grants by rule. The Secretary of State may expend appropriations statewide for direct purchases of equipment and services that support families learning together. (Source: P.A. 89-697, eff. 1-6-97; 90-783, eff. 8-14-98.)