Literacy Leadership Awards

Celebrating schools that are leading the way in early literacy.

Each year, TalentFirst honors elementary schools across West Michigan that are proving what’s possible in reading instruction—at a time when far too many children are struggling to read at grade level.

Why Literacy Leadership Matters.

Michigan ranks near the bottom nationally for fourth-grade reading proficiency. Yet across West Michigan, some schools are reversing that trend.

The Literacy Leadership Awards recognize elementary schools that demonstrate strong reading outcomes, meaningful growth, and disciplined use of evidence-based instruction aligned with the science of reading. These schools show that improvement is achievable—and scalable.

 

What Sets These Schools Apart.

Award-winning schools demonstrated:

  • Strong M-STEP reading performance and/or growth compared to peer schools with similar economic profiles

  • Implementation of the Literacy Essentials framework

  • Ongoing professional learning grounded in the science of reading

  • Dedicated literacy coaching in each building

  • High-quality curricula with systematic phonics instruction

  • Use of formative assessments to guide instruction

  • Clear school improvement plans focused on early literacy

 

Building a Region of Readers.

The Literacy Leadership Awards are part of a broader regional commitment to increase third-grade English Language Arts proficiency by 5% annually over the next three years, through collaboration among business, higher education, and K–12 leaders.

TalentFirst launched this program following the publication of its statewide literacy dashboard, which revealed that more than 60% of Michigan third-graders are not reading at grade level.

By lifting up what works, TalentFirst aims to accelerate improvement across the region.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

The Literacy Leadership Awards are made possible by TalentFirst CEO Council members and partners who believe that literacy is foundational to a strong workforce and a thriving community.

Want to join the movement? Contact Lisa Hungerford at l.hungerford@talentfirst.net.

2025 Literacy Leadership Award Winners

Six elementary schools earned recognition in 2025 and will be celebrated during National Reading Month:

  • Shettler Elementary — Fruitport Community Schools (March 4)

  • Central Elementary — Grandville Public Schools (March 5)

  • Cross Creek Charter Academy — National Heritage Academies (March 14)

  • Glenwood Elementary — Kentwood Public Schools (March 18)

  • Walnut Hills Elementary — Greenville Public Schools (March 20)

  • Vanderbilt Charter Academy — National Heritage Academies (March 21)

Each school receives a $1,000 award in recognition of its leadership and results.

See the story the numbers are telling about early reading—and why it matters for Michigan’s future workforce.

Early Literacy Dashboard