Michigan lawmakers are moving aggressively to address the state’s literacy crisis with multiple pieces of legislation targeting teacher training, retention for struggling third graders, and consequences for teacher preparation programs. The legislative action comes as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has made addressing literacy a priority for 2026.
Background on Literacy Crisis
Just 38.9% of third graders were proficient on the English language arts portion of the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress last year, the lowest performance in the exam’s 11-year history. Michigan students’ performance has been stagnant and declining even as other states that have invested heavily in early literacy have improved.
Michigan lawmakers push for science of reading training to improve literacy rates. Learn more about this approach and how it can help your child succeed.
Proposed Legislation
House Bill 5697 would require all K-5 educators to be trained in the science of reading by the 2031-32 school year. House Bill 5646 would require teacher preparation programs to include training in the science of reading for certification. House Bill 5520 would reinstate the third-grade retention policy with “good cause” exemptions.
Quote: “The science of reading is the key to unlocking literacy for all students.” Attribution: Lori Higgins, Chalkbeat
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Impact on Teachers and Students
The proposed legislation aims to ensure that teachers receive the training they need to effectively teach reading and that students who are struggling receive the support they need to succeed. The science of reading emphasizes phonics, vocabulary, and background knowledge.
Key takeaways
- Michigan lawmakers propose legislation to address literacy crisis: HB 5697, HB 5646, and HB 5520 target teacher training and student retention.Science of reading emphasizes phonics, vocabulary, and background knowledge: This approach has been shown to be effective in improving literacy rates.Legislation aims to support struggling students and hold schools accountable: By providing teachers with the training they need and holding schools accountable for student progress, lawmakers hope to make a positive impact on the state's education system.
Conclusion
The push for science of reading training in Michigan reflects a broader effort to improve literacy rates and address the state’s literacy crisis. By providing teachers with the training they need and holding schools accountable for student progress, lawmakers hope to make a positive impact on the state’s education system.
The push for science of reading training in Michigan is a step in the right direction towards improving literacy rates and addressing the state’s literacy crisis. By providing teachers with the training they need and holding schools accountable for student progress, lawmakers hope to make a positive impact on the state’s education system. Learn more about the science of reading and how it can help your child succeed.
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