ODE ESSA Federal Programs Monthly Newsletter - May 2025

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Oregon Department of Education - Oregon achieves - together

The ODE Federal Programs Team Monthly Newsletter - May 2025

Federal Programs: News, Updates, and Events

USDE Kids Phto-Window

Mark Your Calendar!

  • Final Title II Tuesday – May 27th 10-11 AM on Zoom
  • Division 22 Professional Learning Series – June 24 9:30am - 11am
  • 2025-26 CIP Budget Narrative Assurances and Prayer Certificate due June 30

In This Message

  • Update on Federal Actions
  • Federal Funding Update
  • FY 2025 Small, Rural School Achievement Grant (SRSA) Application Available 
  • ESSA Quick Reference Brief Spotlight: Inventory
  • 2025-2026 Course to Endorsement Catalogue Posted
  • Spring Division 22 Newsletter
  • Save the Date! Division 22 Professional Learning Series
  • Final Title II Tuesday – Session 8
  • Oregon Summer EBT Food Benefits are Back!

Update on Federal Actions

ODE is actively monitoring changes happening at the federal level including the recent Executive Order to close the U.S. Department of Education and the recent directive to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. On April 25, 2025, Oregon, as part of a coalition of 19 attorneys general, filed a lawsuit​ challenging the USDOE’s threat to withhold federal funding from state and local agencies that refuse to abandon lawful programs and policies that promote equal access to education in K-12 classrooms across the nation.

Oregon remains steadfast in its dedication to providing a high-quality public education system that serves all learners equitably. We are collaborating with the Governor’s Office, the Oregon Department of Justice, and other key partners to assess the potential implications of these actions and advocate for the continued support and stability of our schools. Please visit our update on federal actions webpage which we maintain to clearly communicate any impact federal changes have on Oregon. Please contact ode.communications@ode.oregon.gov with any questions.


Federal Funding Update

On May 2nd, the administration released what is called a “skinny” budget, which is not as detailed as a traditional budget request. It is important to note that budget proposals are recommendations to Congress that require bipartisan legislation to take effect. This budget request does not have the force of law, but outlines the Trump Administration’s funding priorities and will serve to inform congressional deliberations about FY 2026 funding.  

As a reminder, FY 2026 funding will impact school year 2026-27 budgets.  ODE is still waiting for allocations from FY 2025, which will impact school year 2025-26 budgets  

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education has notified ODE that the Small Rural School Achievement (SRSA) applications have been delayed. They will let us know as soon as the SRSA applications have been opened. If you have questions, you can reach out to reap@ed.gov.

US dept of Ed

FY 2025 Small, Rural School Achievement Grant (SRSA) Application Available 

The Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP) oversees two formula grant programs: the Small, Rural School Achievement (SRSA) grant and the Rural and Low-Income School (RLIS) grant. The REAP team is gearing up for its annual SRSA grant application, which is expected to be available beginning in mid-May. When the application becomes available, each SRSA-eligible LEA estimated to receive funding based on the allocation formula will receive an email invitation from no-reply.survey@connect.gov containing a link to access their unique SRSA application. This email will be sent to the primary contact of each eligible LEA listed on the FY 2025 Master Eligibility Spreadsheet (MES). Additionally, the FY 2025 MES contains estimated award amounts for SRSA- and RLIS-eligible LEAs. On average, the SRSA application takes 10 to 30 minutes to complete.

 

You may view the REAP Quick Links Document that contains a list of resources and webpages relating to the SRSA and RLIS grant programs or feel free to contact REAP@ed.gov directly with any questions.


ESSA Quick Reference Brief Spotlight: Inventory 

Oregon ESSA logo

 Districts that receive federal funds must maintain an up-to-date inventory of equipment and unused supplies purchased with those funds. In our recently updated ESSA Quick Reference Brief: Inventory learn more about the requirements for inventory tracking systems, what should be tracked, and the updated thresholds for equipment in the Uniform Grants Guidance.

Check out other ESSA Quick Reference Briefs on this web page.


2025-2026 Course to Endorsement Catalogue Posted

The Course to Endorsement Catalogue is a collaborative project between ODE and Oregon's Teacher Standards & Practices Commission (TSPC).  The Catalogue includes descriptions of each course as defined by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) and identifies, by endorsement, the courses that teachers are authorized to teach. The Catalogue is updated each year with any changes to ensure consistency with NCES course codes.

As districts plan for next year, the 2025-26 versions of the Course to Endorsement Catalogue and the Course to Endorsement Look-Up Tool are now available on the ODE website. To ensure both versions of the catalogue meet web accessibility requirements, some adjustments had to be made to the formatting. While the content remains the same, experienced users of the catalogue will notice some changes. A brief video walkthrough has been created to assist with the transition. If you have questions about the catalogue, please reach out to Sarah Martin.


Spring Division 22 Standards Newsletter

The Spring issue of the Division 22 Standards newsletter is now live, with a fresh redesign. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find inside:

  • Reporting Highlights & Data Snapshot: Recognition of districts that went above and beyond the reporting floor, links to exemplar reports, and assurances data summaries. 
  • New & Noteworthy: New requirements for maintaining electronic student records and a matrix that shows which Division 22 requirements apply to charter schools.
  • Standards Spotlight: FAQs on Instructional Time Requirements, including those specifically for Physical Education.
  • Unpack this OAR: Tools and resources to support increased understanding of and compliance with Comprehensive School Counseling. 

Questions? Reach out to Susan Payne, Division 22 Specialist susan.payne@ode.oregon.gov


Save the Date!

The next session in the Division 22 PL series will be held from 9 - 10:30 am (PT) on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. Register in advance. You will then be provided with the meeting link and will be able to add the session to your calendar. All registrants will have access to the meeting materials and session recordings. Join us to explore the following topics:

  • Division 22 Legislative Update & Hot Topics from ODE Staff
  • Substance Use Prevention and Intervention Plans.
    • Learn from districts who have worked with WestEd over the past year to create model plans.
    • Explore resources to support creation or revision of your district’s plan

Questions? Contact Susan Payne, ODE’s Education Standards and Systems Specialist at Susan.Payne@ode.oregon.gov or (503) 580-6814.


FINAL Title II Tuesdays – May 27th 

Title 2

Title II Tuesdays is a monthly opportunity to dive deeper into topics specific to Title II-A. The slide deck and recording for Session 7 where districts shared their practices focused on diversifying the educator workforce is now available on the ODE website.

The final session in this series will be held on May 27th from 10-11 AM using this Zoom link. In this session we’ll reflect on the current year and talk about planning for the year ahead. Please bring your experience and voice to the conversation!


Oregon Summer EBT food benefits are back for 2025!

EBT

Giving families more access to groceries during the summer means students will show up for the first day of class ready to learn. Last year, more than 362,000 children participated in the Oregon Summer EBT grocery benefits program. Summer EBT is back in 2025 for its second year.

Families will get one payment of $120 on an Oregon EBT card for each eligible child to buy groceries. Children between the ages of six and 18 can participate.

Most families will get Summer EBT automatically if they are getting other benefits. This includes families who received Summer EBT in 2024 and continue to meet eligibility requirements. They do not need to apply. They will receive benefits on their existing Oregon EBT card starting on May 23, 2025. Families who need a new card should call 855-328-6715.

Some families need to apply. This includes families who meet household income requirements and have children attending a school with the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program. Online application opens on May 30, 2025. The last day to apply is Sept. 3, 2025.

Learn whether you need to apply on the Summer EBT website at sebt.oregon.gov.


FST Reading Corner

Reading Corner

Federal System Team's "Framework of Support"

Our goal is to provide differentiated support and strengthen the partnership between districts and ODE federal program staff. Check out the resources and support below and reach out to let us know how we can support you!

FST Framework of Support

Need Further Assistance? We're here to help!

Questions?2

Director: Liz Ross 

Title IA: Lisa Plumb, Jen EngbergSarah Martin, & Amy Tidwell

Title VB: Amy Tidwell

Title ID: Jen Engberg 

Title IIA: Sarah Martin

Title III: Kim Miller 

Title C: Yuliana Kenfield, Hector Aguirre

Title IVA: Lisa Plumb

Title IVB: Raquel Gwynn

General ESEA inquiries: Laura Remondino

Federal Systems Administrative Specialist: Serena Robinson

Expanded Learning: John Bissey

21st CCLC Education Specialist: Michelle Cusey

Private Schools: Janette Newton

SSA Summer Tiffany Palaniuk

Foster Care POCs: Marlie Magill

Foster Transportation: Jennifer Sappington

Jump Start Kindergarten: Tiffany Palaniuk

McKinney-Vento & ARP - HCY: Lexi Neemann

Newsletter Contact: Laura Remondino