A Statewide Campaign to Transform Michigan’s Literacy Outcomes
Michigan faces a literacy crisis. Reading scores have stagnated for years, and 70% of districts are using curricula misaligned with the science of reading—leaving out essential elements like decoding, comprehension, knowledge-building, and writing.
The Challenge:
While legislative change is needed, students can’t wait. Launch Michigan can drive immediate action to close the literacy gap now—before policy catches up.
The Solution:
Right Curriculum: Adopt K–5 evidence-based curricula grounded in the science of reading, right now, without waiting to be told by the state.
Every Educator Trained: Ensure 100% of K–5 educators are trained in evidence-based practices.
Assessment: Use validated, high-quality literacy assessments to identify student needs early.
Data Use: Apply literacy data to target supports and track progress statewide.
Systems: Embed literacy goals into district improvement plans (MICIP) and engage administrators in professional learning.
The Timeline:
The Plan:
Phase 1 - Fall 2025–Spring 2026: Inspire & Lead
Launch Michigan will mobilize educators, policymakers, and the public through a statewide thought leadership campaign featuring:
Public Narrative and Media Presence: Lead with clear, evidence-based messaging on Michigan’s literacy crisis and the Every Child READS initiative through op-eds, press events, podcasts, and social media.
Highlighting Best Practices: Publish and share a list of top evidence-based curricula, assessments, and training programs, ensuring that there is no influence from vendors or lobbyists.
Knowledge Sharing and Convenings: Host learning sessions that connect experts with practitioners in the field, showcasing successful implementations of literacy practices.
Recognition and Storytelling: Highlight early adopters through case studies, dashboards, and events that recognize their efforts, involving the Governor and the business community.
Building Broad Support and Recognition: Gather support from the Governor, businesses, and key partners to celebrate and endorse READS districts.
Phase 1B - Fall 2025–Spring 2026: Demonstration Projects
Partner with a small number of districts to model READS implementation with expert support, educator training, and data integration.
Phase 2 - Spring 2026 onward: Build Toward a Statewide Literacy Pledge & Incentives
Launch a statewide pledge with recognition, business-community incentives, and policy alignment. Call for the requirement of literacy goals in MICIP. Publish annual literacy progress reports.
The Literacy Pledge:
Encourage school boards to adopt the Every Child READS platform and commit to the five evidence-based actions.
Boards and districts that commit to the Every Child READS initiative will receive:
Expert support from literacy leaders based both in Michigan and nationally.
Visibility and recognition from the Governor and the business community.
Connections and incentives to expedite implementation.
Clear guidance on the best evidence-based curricula, assessments, training, and interventions.
Join the fight for our future
We need to pass the right policies in Lansing to modernize our education system for all students, all over the state. And we need to work with parents, educators and local leaders all over the state to make sure those policies are based in reality and that we can implement them for every Michigan student.