Sec. 13a.06.09.02. Definitions

A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined.

(1) Evidence-based early literacy program” means a program that satisfies §8101(21)(A)(i)(I) or §8101(21)(A)(i)(II) under Title 8, General Provisions of the Every Student Succeeds Act, and includes systematic, direct instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary development, fluency, and comprehension.

(2) “Initiative” means the Maryland Early Literacy Initiative.

(3) “Interventionist” means a trained professional whose primary responsibility is to deliver evidence-based early literacy intervention.

(4) “Nonprofit organization” means a nonprofit organization that:

(a) Is based in the State;

(b) Is incorporated or registered under the laws of the State;

(c) Is exempt from federal income tax under §501(c)(3), (4), or (6) of the Internal Revenue Code;

(d) Is current in the payment of all tax obligations to the State or any unit or subdivision of the State; and

(e) Has been in active business for 3 years or more at the time the application is submitted or has a fiscal sponsor who can meet the requirements of this section.

(5) “Participating student” means a student:

(a) In prekindergarten through eighth grade; or

(b) A student who performs below a certain score, as determined by the Department, on the assessment the Department uses to assess reading level.

(6) “Qualifying school” means a public school categorized by the local school system as a Title I school.