The Michigan House on Thursday passed two bills that would require science of reading training for both current K-5 educators and new teachers entering the profession.

House Bill 5697, sponsored by Rep. Nancy DeBoer, would require most certificated staff who provide, support or oversee instruction in kindergarten through fifth grade to complete science of reading training by the 2031-32 school year. The training would cover topics including phonological and phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and the use of diagnostic and progress-monitoring data.

House Bill 5646, sponsored by Rep. Tim Kelly, would require teacher preparation programs and alternative certification programs to include science of reading content so that graduates are eligible for a Michigan teaching certificate or endorsement. The requirement would apply to certificates issued on or after Sept. 30, 2027.

If the bills become law, the Michigan Department of Education would approve training vendors that meet the required standards.

“Reading is the foundation for success in school and in life,” State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko said. “These bills would build on Michigan’s ongoing efforts to improve literacy outcomes and provide educators with the tools and support they need to help all students become strong readers. The department supports the bills and appreciates the bipartisan support in the House.”

The bills now head to the Senate for approval. If approved, they would then head to the Governor's desk to become law.

For more information, visit the Michigan Legislature website for House Bill 5646 and House Bill 5697.

_{Release information courtesy of Michigan Department of Education.}