Whitmer aims to boost literacy as Michigan students struggle with reading

February 10, 2026

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer plans to propose a $625 million education budget investment specifically targeting the state's struggling literacy rates among elementary students. The initiative comes as Michigan's third-grade reading proficiency has dropped to a historic low of 38. 9%, and fourth-graders continue performing below national averages on standardized assessments.

Who is affected

Michigan K-12 students, particularly those in early elementary grades (preschool through third grade)
Third graders (38.9% proficient in English language arts)
Fourth graders (24% proficient on national assessments)
Teachers requiring training in literacy instruction
School districts across Michigan
The Michigan Department of Education and State Board of Education

What action is being taken

Governor Whitmer is unveiling a budget proposal Wednesday that includes $625 million for literacy programs
The proposal is being presented to the Michigan Legislature
State Superintendent Glenn Maleyko and the Michigan Department of Education are working to advance these literacy priorities

Why it matters

This represents a critical response to Michigan's deepening literacy crisis, where student reading performance has reached an 11-year low and falls significantly below national standards. Michigan's stagnant or declining literacy rates contrast sharply with improvements seen in other states that have invested heavily in early reading programs, suggesting the state risks falling further behind without significant intervention. Since literacy forms the foundation for all future academic success, addressing this crisis is essential for Michigan students' long-term educational and career outcomes, making this investment crucial for the state's economic future and workforce development.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com