Detroit, December 16, 2025
The inaugural Michigan Literacy Summit was co-hosted by Governor Gretchen Whitmer and State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko in Detroit, gathering nearly 300 leaders from various sectors to focus on improving student literacy. With panel discussions sharing effective strategies and insights from successful initiatives in other states, the summit emphasized a collaborative approach to tackling the literacy crisis in Michigan. Key legislative actions have also strengthened literacy initiatives across the state, aiming to equip students with essential skills for future success.
Detroit, Michigan – December 15, 2025
Governor Gretchen Whitmer and State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko co-hosted the inaugural Michigan Literacy Summit at the Michigan Science Center in Detroit, aiming to accelerate efforts to improve student literacy across the state.
Nearly 300 leaders from education, labor, business, philanthropy, and government sectors participated in the summit, engaging in panel discussions to identify challenges and share effective strategies for enhancing literacy outcomes.
The vital importance of literacy in fueling Michigan’s educational and economic success was front and center throughout the summit. Governor Whitmer emphasized the state’s commitment to combating the literacy crisis through initiatives such as tripling literacy coaches and enacting Science of Reading legislation, which mandates evidence-based teaching methods. With such initiatives, there is a hope to transform the local educational landscape, alleviating long-standing challenges.
With Dr. Maleyko recently stepping into his role as State Superintendent, he echoed the importance of unified leadership in educational improvement. He urged collaboration among the Michigan Department of Education, local educators, parents, and other stakeholders to work collectively towards significant literacy enhancement in the state’s schools.
Panel discussions at the summit focused on understanding the critical need for improved literacy, examining successful strategies from other states, reviewing Michigan’s current efforts, and determining necessary actions to further enhance literacy outcomes.
Notable Michigan panelists included prominent figures like Dr. Elizabeth Birr Moje, Dean of the University of Michigan Marsal Family School of Education; Ronald E. Hall, President and CEO of Bridgewater Interiors; and Darin Holley, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education at Waterford School District. The diverse range of expertise provided valuable insights into effective literacy strategies.
In addition to local insights, representatives from Mississippi shared their successful literacy turnaround strategies, offering helpful lessons that Michigan could adopt to drive similar progress. This cross-state collaboration reflects an invigorated commitment to enhancing education standards across Michigan.
As the summit came to a close, Governor Whitmer issued a call to action. She made it clear that literacy is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of all stakeholders in ensuring that every child in Michigan has the opportunity to read and thrive.
Recent legislative actions in Michigan have strengthened literacy initiatives, including the Science of Reading literacy and dyslexia laws signed by Governor Whitmer in the fall of 2024. These laws, passed with bipartisan support, enhance early literacy materials, provide professional development, and promote coaching for teachers. Additionally, they facilitate early dyslexia screening for K-3 students, highlighting a proactive stance toward education reform.
As of December 1, over 5,500 Michigan teachers have completed the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) Science of Reading professional development, with nearly 6,000 active participants in the program. These statistics reflect a significant commitment to enhancing literacy instruction and improving educational outcomes statewide.
The administration’s focus on literacy aligns with Michigan’s broader educational and economic development strategies, aiming to equip all students with the essential skills needed for success in the 21st century. The collaborative efforts showcased at the summit are a promising step toward addressing the literacy needs of Michigan’s youth and strengthening the workforce of the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the purpose of the Michigan Literacy Summit held on December 15, 2025?
The summit aimed to accelerate efforts to improve student literacy across Michigan by bringing together leaders from various sectors to identify challenges and share effective strategies for enhancing literacy outcomes.
Who were some of the key participants in the Michigan Literacy Summit?
Key participants included Governor Gretchen Whitmer, State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko, Dr. Elizabeth Birr Moje, Ronald E. Hall, Darin Holley, Dr. Darienne Driver Hudson, and other leaders from education, business, and government sectors.
What legislative actions have been taken in Michigan to support literacy initiatives?
In fall 2024, Michigan enacted the Science of Reading literacy and dyslexia laws, which enhance early literacy materials, professional development, and coaching, promoting evidence-based reading instruction and early dyslexia screening for K-3 students.
How many Michigan teachers have participated in the LETRS Science of Reading professional development?
As of December 1, over 5,500 Michigan teachers have completed the LETRS Science of Reading professional development, with nearly 6,000 active participants, reflecting a significant commitment to improving literacy instruction statewide.
What is the significance of the Michigan Literacy Summit for the state’s educational and economic development?
The summit underscores the administration’s commitment to prioritizing literacy as a key component of Michigan’s educational and economic development strategies, aiming to equip all students with essential skills for success in the 21st century.
Key Features of the Michigan Literacy Summit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Inaugural Michigan Literacy Summit |
| Date | December 15, 2025 |
| Location | Michigan Science Center, Detroit |
| Participants | Nearly 300 leaders from education, labor, business, philanthropy, and government sectors |
| Keynote Speakers | Governor Gretchen Whitmer and State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko |
| Panel Discussions | Addressed challenges and strategies for improving literacy outcomes in Michigan |
| Legislative Actions | Enactment of Science of Reading literacy and dyslexia laws in fall 2024 |
| Teacher Training | Over 5,500 Michigan teachers completed LETRS Science of Reading professional development as of December 1 |
| State Goal | Equip all students with essential skills for success in the 21st century |
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