The foundation of literacy begins in our early childhood classrooms where the focus hinges on early reading and writing behaviors. These behaviors are enhanced by the data we collect, the instruction we guide, the literacy skills we model, and the instructional strategies in which we choose to adopt in our classrooms.

Michigan's Early Literacy Initiative is a core component of supporting the implementation of College- and Career-Ready standards in Michigan, particularly in our earliest grades. The Department is making a concerted effort to consistently focus on the foundations described above and build capacity to support Districts on the key driver of student achievement – Literacy.  That’s why a group of education experts developed new approaches for teachers to use in the classroom. Literacy Essentials are free documents designed for Michigan educators to improve childhood literacy development. The Literacy Essentials provide research-proven, effective approaches to markedly improve literacy skills among Michigan’s youngest students. Using the Literacy Essentials with every child, in every classroom, every day will help improve literacy among our youngest learners. Check out this website for more information:

• Essential Instructional Practices in Early Literacy Grades K to 3

• Essential Instructional Practices in Literacy Grade 4-5

• Essential Practices in Early Literacy K to 3: Self Reflection and Planning Guide

The purpose of system-wide and center-wide literacy practices is to improve children’s literacy in Michigan. These systematic and effective practices implemented at the organizational level in education and care settings help children become proficient in reading.

To meet the needs of all young learners in Michigan, organizational practices must support literacy development in ways that systematically impact learning in elementary schools, early childhood learning centers, and other literacy programs and environments.

• Essential School-Wide and Center-Wide Practices in Literacy and Mathematics, PreK to Grade 5

• Screening Tool: Identify Focus Areas in the School-Wide and Center-Wide Literacy and Mathematics Essentials