UCO’s Child Study Center Receives Grant to Support Childhood Literacy
Nov. 12, 2025
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Child Study Center, a preschool offering full- and part-time programs for children ages 3 to 5 while supporting the education, training and research of UCO students, was awarded a $100,000 Opportunities for Children Community Grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation to advance childhood literacy.
The grant will fund the implementation of the Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) model, a nationally recognized literacy initiative that increases access to books and promotes reading engagement among children. The program combines high-quality curriculum materials, educator training and direct student support to cultivate a lifelong love of reading. It also emphasizes early literacy development for children in underserved communities while encouraging family and community involvement in reading activities.
“The Child Study Center remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing early literacy and providing high-quality learning experiences for young children,” said LaDonna Atkins, Ed.D., professor and assistant chair of the UCO Department of Human Environmental Sciences.
“This grant affirms our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every child has access to enriching, literacy-focused experiences.”
The grant, secured by Atkins, supports organizations that provide enrichment opportunities for children who might otherwise lack access to these opportunities. Through this initiative, Atkins aims to strengthen literacy outcomes and empower future educators to make a lasting impact in their classrooms.
To learn more about the RIF model, visit www.rif.org.
For more information about the UCO Child Study Center or to apply, visit go.uco.edu/ChildStudyCenter.
(end)
Cutline: The University of Central Oklahoma’s Child Study Center, a preschool offering full- and part-time programs for children ages 3 to 5 while supporting the education, training and research of UCO students, has been awarded a $100,000 Opportunities for Children Community Grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation to advance childhood literacy.
