Gretchen Whitmer wants to boost literacy in Michigan. Here’s what to know

February 27, 2026

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is highlighting the state's poor education performance, with Michigan ranking 44th nationally in reading assessments and only 38. 9% of third graders demonstrating proficiency in English language arts. During her final State of the State address, she advocated for increased investment in literacy programs, including universal pre-kindergarten, evidence-based teaching methods, and expanded tutoring opportunities.

Who is affected

Michigan students, particularly third graders and four-year-olds
The state's 118,000 four-year-old children
51,000 students currently enrolled in the Great Start Readiness Program
5,843 educators who have completed LETRS training and 5,558 currently in the course
Elementary school teachers across the state
Parents of Michigan students
School districts statewide
The next Michigan governor

What action is being taken

The Great Start Readiness Program is providing tuition-free pre-K classes to Michigan four-year-olds
Enrollment in the Great Start Readiness Program is growing, with a 21% increase from the previous year
5,843 educators have completed LETRS training and another 5,558 are currently taking the course
The state is providing funds for districts to purchase reading curriculum from a vetted list
Local districts are notifying parents if they are not using evidence-based curriculum or one aligned with state standards
Michigan is providing funding to organizations for out-of-school time programs

Why it matters

This matters because Michigan's reading proficiency is among the worst in the nation, with the state ranking 44th nationally and reaching a historic low of only 38.9% of third graders being proficient in English language arts. Early literacy skills are foundational to all future academic success, and poor reading performance can have long-term consequences for students' educational and career outcomes. The state's declining performance indicates that current approaches are insufficient, making systemic changes and increased investment critical. Other states like Mississippi have demonstrated that evidence-based approaches and proper teacher training can significantly improve reading outcomes, suggesting Michigan's situation is reversible with appropriate action.

What's next

Starting in the 2027-2028 school year, districts will be required to screen students for traits of dyslexia, teach reading in evidence-based ways, and ensure teachers are trained in how students learn to read
Officials have set a goal to serve 88,500 of the state's 118,000 four-year-old children in publicly funded programs by 2027
Whitmer is proposing $181.1 million in the next fiscal year budget to fund pre-K for 68,000 children
Whitmer is proposing $50 million to be used over five years for additional LETRS teacher training
Whitmer is calling on the Legislature to provide $135 million for before, after, and summer school learning programs
Whitmer is calling on the next governor to continue the focus on literacy

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com