A local school district is expanding its early literacy program.

The Janesville School Board approved an increase in funding Tuesday night for the initiative that will pay for a full-time early literacy coordinator position.

Superintendent Steve Pophal emphasized research that shows students who are reading proficiently by third grade have a much greater chance of educational achievement throughout grade school.

The added funding will also help grow the district’s programs that work with parents to help them with early childhood development before their children reach school-age.

Janesville’s early literacy program works with young children across the community, regardless of whether they end up enrolling in the public school district.

The program has existing partnerships with the Hedberg Public Library, SSM Health, Mercyhealth, United Way and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.