Tri County Area Schools is pleased to announce that the district has received $176,294 in funding through Michigan’s Section 35m Literacy Grant to support continued improvements in literacy instruction for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
The grant will help the district continue strengthening literacy instruction through high-quality instructional materials and professional learning opportunities that support teachers in delivering effective, research-based reading instruction. Corrie Mervyn, Tri County’s Director of Assessment & Accountability, led the work to secure this grant as part of the district’s ongoing efforts to pursue resources that support student learning.
Michigan’s Section 35m initiative represents a significant statewide investment in early literacy. The State School Aid Act provides funding to the Michigan Department of Education to support districts in implementing literacy programs and professional learning aligned with the Science of Reading. As part of this effort, the Michigan Department of Education established a Committee for Literacy Achievement that reviews and ranks literacy curriculum, instructional materials, professional development, and literacy tools to ensure schools are using high-quality, research-based resources.
Districts may apply for funding to support the implementation of these state-reviewed literacy resources. Through this grant opportunity, Tri County Area Schools will continue building a strong literacy system that supports students at every stage of their learning journey.
Superintendent Ryan Biller emphasized the importance of the investment in literacy for Tri County students and staff.
“We are grateful for the work that helps bring these opportunities to our district and for the continued dedication of our educators who work each day to help students grow as readers and learners,” said Biller. “Strong literacy skills are the foundation for success in every subject area and throughout life. This grant helps us continue investing in our teachers and instructional programs so that every Tri County student has the opportunity to become a confident and capable reader.”
Tri County educators continue to focus on strengthening literacy instruction through ongoing professional learning, collaboration, and the use of data to guide instruction and support student growth. These efforts reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every Tri County student develops the reading skills needed to succeed in school and beyond.
Through the support of the Section 35m Literacy Grant, Tri County Area Schools will continue partnering with educators and families to foster strong literacy development and a lifelong love of reading.