Michigan Governor Proposes Funding for Childhood Literacy

Whitmer's plan aims to expand literacy instruction and after-school programs

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proposed millions of dollars in new funding to support childhood literacy in the state. The funding would go toward expanding literacy instruction and increasing options for after-school programming. Lawmakers have struggled for years to get Michigan students up to the standards of similar states, and bipartisan frustration has continued to grow.

Why it matters

Improving childhood literacy is a key priority for Michigan, as the state has lagged behind national averages in student reading proficiency. The new funding could help provide more resources and opportunities for students, particularly in rural communities, to develop critical reading skills.

The details

Whitmer's proposal includes a sales tax break on school products like classroom items, clothes, and computers. However, the details of the plan still need to be finalized, as the nearly $80 billion state budget requires support from the Republican-controlled House, and some policies could be modified during negotiations.

  • Whitmer is set to detail her plan and more in a Wednesday presentation before lawmakers.

The players

Gretchen Whitmer

The Governor of Michigan who is proposing the new funding for childhood literacy.

Tom McKee

The superintendent of Rudyard Area Schools who says the plan could make more resources available to rural communities, but is waiting to see more details.

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What they’re saying

“One thing that worries me is it's always one time funding — if we could really get into a place where our governor and our legislators put an emphasis on some long-term solutions, it would make the whole education process a lot better for all of our kids.”

— Tom McKee, Superintendent of Rudyard Area Schools (9and10news.com)

What’s next

The details of Whitmer's proposal will be presented to lawmakers on Wednesday, and the nearly $80 billion state budget that includes the literacy funding will require support from the Republican-controlled House, so some policies could be modified during negotiations.

The takeaway

Improving childhood literacy is a key priority for Michigan, and the new funding proposed by Governor Whitmer could provide critical resources and opportunities for students, particularly in rural communities, to develop essential reading skills. However, the final details of the plan will depend on negotiations with the state legislature.