Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Encompass Community School
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 4300 Park Avenue
City: Nashville
State: Tennessee
Postal Code: 37209
Main Phone: 662-641-2389
Main Fax:
Organization Website: EncompassNashville.org
Employer ID Number: 92-2891235
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/30/2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Literacy for All
Project Description:

Approximately 93% of Encompass’s student population met the federal definition of being economically disadvantaged. A majority of our students are zoned for schools with alarmingly low proficiency rates—only about 1 in 10 students demonstrate proficiency in reading and math, as measured by Tennessee’s statewide assessment in 2024. These persistent academic deficiencies compound over time, significantly limiting students’ access to postsecondary opportunities and reducing graduation rates. Given the stakes, it is imperative are able to implement a high-quality literacy program. Therefore, we are seeking an opportunity to formally request funding support to purchase Reading Mastery. This research-based literacy program ensures all students develop strong reading skills through explicit, systematic instruction. Given the importance of foundational literacy in early education, investing in Reading Mastery will give our students a proven pathway to reading success. Reading Mastery is backed by decades of research demonstrating its effectiveness in improving reading outcomes, particularly for struggling readers and students in diverse learning environments. The program follows a Direct Instruction (DI) model, emphasizing clear, scripted lessons, cumulative skill development, and frequent progress monitoring. This program is designed to meet the needs of all students, including those who require additional support. It provides differentiated instruction that helps accelerate learning for students at different skill levels. Its structured approach is particularly beneficial for students who may not have had strong early literacy foundations. The program ensures that students not only learn how to read but also achieve reading fluency and comprehension. It systematically builds decoding, phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension skills, reinforcing learning at each step before moving forward. This mastery-based approach aligns with our school’s instructional model, ensuring that students gain confidence as readers. Studies have shown that Reading Mastery is effective in closing reading gaps, particularly for students from historically underserved communities. Its structured format minimizes gaps in instruction and provides consistent, high-quality reading instruction. By investing in Reading Mastery, we will equip our students with the tools they need to become proficient, confident readers, setting them up for lifelong academic success. This program aligns with our commitment to literacy excellence and will be a cornerstone of our early reading instruction.

Total Project Budget: $60,758.42

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Applied for $5,ooo Dollar General Literacy Grant

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Nashville, TN
Age Group To Be Served: Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Megan
Contact Last Name: Garry
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 662-641-2389
Contact Email: mgarry@encompassnashville.org