NEA’s Read Across America 2026-27 State Affiliate Event Grant Criteria
NEA’s Read Across America 2026-27 State Affiliate Event Grant Criteria supports state affiliates’ literacy events that put diverse books into students’ hands and celebrate joyful reading and freedom to learn.
Funder: National Education Association
Due Dates: October 19, 2026 (Application) | December 4, 2026 (Notification)
Funding Amounts: Up to $7,500 per award; $75,000 total funding
Summary: Supports state affiliate-coordinated literacy events that celebrate diverse books, joyful reading, and the freedom to learn.
Key Information: Only NEA state affiliates may apply; local affiliates may collaborate but cannot submit applications.
Description
The National Education Association’s Read Across America Event Grant supports state affiliate-coordinated events and activities under the theme “Celebrating a Nation of Diverse Readers.” The program emphasizes diverse books, connecting reading with joy, and the freedom to learn. Recognizing the challenges posed by book and curriculum bans, NEA encourages proposals that put diverse books into students’ hands and make reading more visible, accessible, and joyful throughout the year.
Appropriate activities include guest-reader events with book giveaways, statewide Diverse Books Challenges, association-branded Little Free Libraries, classroom or school book clubs for K–12 public school educators, and virtual or in-person visits by diverse authors and illustrators. Diverse books encompass characters and experiences reflecting race, culture, language, setting, beliefs, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, income, ability, religion, and family structure.
