Education

Making the Grade in Michigan

Listen Tuesdays at 6:45 and 8:45 a.m. on 90.5 WKAR-FMAccording to the Kids Count report of April 2018, 56% of third graders in Michigan are not proficient in English Language Arts. At the same time, some new public school teachers in Michigan are leaving the classroom because they do not earn enough money for a decent living. Virtual and charter schools are on the rise in Michigan. And in some communities there are breakthroughs in raising better readers.Covering education in Michigan is complex, but WKAR is committed to reporting on the problems, searching for solutions, and holding leaders accountable.Listen for Making The Grade in Michigan with WKAR education reporter Kevin Lavery every Tuesday at 6:45 and 8:45 a.m. on 90.5 WKAR-FM's Morning Edition.

Educators Say Preschool is Vital to Early Literacy

WKAR Public Media | By Kevin Lavery

Published April 24, 2018 at 4:30 AM EDT

man and woman with books — Literacy specialist Melissa Richard and principal Dave Cherry emphasize early literacy skills at Challenger Elementary in Howell.

The 2018 Kids Count Data Book published by the Michigan League for Public Policy ranks Livingston County as the top county in Michigan for child well-being. Education is a key factor in a child's quality of life.

WKAR Education Reporter Kevin Lavery visited schools in Livingston and Ingham counties to see how each is teaching literacy skills to some of their youngest learners.