Michigan Student Literacy Crisis Deepens as Test Scores Plummet

Michigan’s latest student test scores show a worsening literacy crisis. Education policies and political decisions face scrutiny amid growing concerns.

Michigan’s Student Literacy Crisis Worsens as Scores Plummet

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan’s education system is facing renewed scrutiny after the 2024 Nation’s Report Card revealed a staggering decline in student literacy rates. According to the report, 75% of Michigan’s fourth graders and 76% of eighth graders cannot read at grade level. The findings highlight an ongoing crisis that threatens both the state’s future workforce and economic stability.

State Sen. Lana Theis, R-Brighton, strongly criticized Democratic leadership for dismantling key education policies. She blamed policy rollbacks, including the repeal of Michigan’s Read by Third Grade law, the weakening of teacher standards, and the elimination of the A-F grading scale for schools, for the deteriorating academic performance.

“We cannot allow ourselves to become desensitized to numbers this shocking,” Theis said. “Three out of four Michigan students are struggling with literacy, yet instead of raising the bar and providing better support, Democrats have systematically dismantled key policies that were designed to help students succeed.”

The Impact of Policy Changes on Michigan’s Education System

Michigan previously implemented a third-grade reading retention policy, which required students who failed to meet literacy benchmarks to receive targeted interventions. That policy was repealed in 2023, a move celebrated by Democrats but criticized by education reform advocates. Theis and other Republicans argue that removing the retention standard has led to worsening student outcomes.

Additionally, Democratic lawmakers eliminated the A-F grading system for schools, which critics say removed transparency and accountability. “Democrats applauded these irresponsible decisions and praised these repeals across social media, but I doubt any of them will be posting about today’s dismal test scores,” Theis added.

Experts agree that these declines in literacy will have long-term consequences for Michigan’s workforce. One education specialist told Bridge Michigan, “A lot more kids than we would hope are going to struggle with later life schooling and labor market outcomes. Because there is a pretty strong connection between how well kids do on tests and their later life outcomes.”

Governor Whitmer Under Fire for Education Priorities

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also come under fire for her education priorities. Theis criticized Whitmer for vetoing a $155 million program that would have provided $1,000 reading scholarships for struggling elementary students. Opponents of the initiative argued that it resembled a school voucher program and that the funds could be better allocated. However, critics argue that rejecting the measure limited critical literacy support for students in need.

“Michigan’s kids are falling behind, and instead of investing in a solution, the governor chose to block resources that would have helped students learn to read,” Theis said. “This is a blatant prioritization of politics over our children’s futures, and it’s unacceptable.”

The senator also took aim at Whitmer’s national travels promoting a children’s book while Michigan’s education crisis deepens. “Adding insult to injury, Gov. Whitmer is currently traveling the country promoting a children’s book,” Theis stated. “This is a complete failure of leadership. The governor and legislative Democrats responsible for stripping away proven education policies and setting our kids up for failure should be held accountable.”

What’s Next for Michigan’s Education System?

Theis is calling for an urgent course correction. Her proposed measures include reinstating proven literacy policies, strengthening teacher accountability, and ensuring that Michigan’s education system prioritizes student success over political agendas.

With Michigan’s workforce already struggling to fill skilled jobs, declining literacy rates could exacerbate labor shortages and economic instability. Without immediate intervention, educators and lawmakers warn that the state’s future remains at risk.

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Paul Austin

Paul is a writer living in the Great Lakes Region. He dabbles in research of historical events, places, and people on his website at Michigan4You.When he isn't under a deadline, you can find him on the beach with a good book and a cold beer.

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