Governor Gretchen Whitmer, alongside State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko, today recognized 17 Michigan school districts for their proactive commitment to training all elementary educators in the science of reading, utilizing the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) program.
This initiative anticipates a statewide requirement for all K-5 reading teachers to complete such training by the 2031-2032 school year, as mandated by Public Act 26 of 2026. The Michigan Department of Education is currently developing a statewide implementation plan.
"Every kid deserves the best opportunity to become a strong reader and writer," said Governor Whitmer. "I applaud these districts for their commitment to helping every child read. They’re building on the progress we’ve made on literacy, including making the science of reading the standard in Michigan schools, screening every student for dyslexia, and quadrupling the number of literacy coaches across the state."
State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko emphasized the collaborative effort, saying, "By investing in high quality professional learning through the Science of Reading, we are equipping educators with the knowledge and tools they need to improve literacy achievement." He added that "Literacy is the foundation for success in school, future careers and life, and every Michigan student deserves the opportunity to become a confident and successful reader.”
LETRS is an approved comprehensive professional learning program designed to provide early childhood and elementary educators and administrators with deep knowledge in the science of reading, covering essential skills such as phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Over 7,600 educators have participated in LETRS training, with 5,600 having completed it.
The Michigan Department of Education’s Michigan Leaders District Success Partnership offers new support for districts undertaking this training. The 17 districts approved to join this partnership include: Battle Creek Public Schools, Berkley Schools, Buchanan Community Schools, Clarenceville School District, Comstock Public Schools, Crestwood School District, Dearborn Public Schools, Farwell Area Schools, Grand Rapids Public Schools, Hazel Park Schools, Kearsley Community Schools, Madison District Public Schools, Mt. Pleasant Public Schools, Reed City Area Public Schools, American Montessori Academy, Crossroads Charter Academy, and South Canton Scholars Charter Academy.
Dr. Kim Carter, superintendent of Battle Creek Public Schools, said, “Literacy has been a cornerstone of Battle Creek Public Schools’ transformation for years... The LETRS Leaders District Success Partnership will take that commitment to the next level by deepening our educators’ expertise and creating lasting, systemwide change.” Scott Francis, superintendent of Berkley Schools, also noted, “Expanding LETRS training and investing in our educators means investing in our students to ensure each and every one has access to explicit, evidence-based reading instruction.”
Michigan's broader "Every Child Reads" vision is a three-part plan focusing on Early Starts, Proven Methods, and Extra Help. This includes ensuring every child has a strong start through initiatives like PreK for All, funding for professional learning such as LETRS, and providing tutoring and small group support to students in need.