literacy

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Republicans agree: Enhancing literacy needs to be a greater statewide priority. While they negotiate how best to support literacy efforts, there are strong programs available through our libraries. WEMU's David Fair explored the underdiscussed and appreciated role of these institutions with the director of the Ann Arbor District Library, Eli Neiburger.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivered her eighth and final State of the State address Wednesday night. She worked to sell a divided Legislature on a 2026 agenda that will help set her legacy and the stage for elections that will determine Michigan’s next political chapter. We have more from Rick Pluta.

There are hints of Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s 2026 State of the State plans in the budget proposal rolled out by her administration earlier this month. We have more from Rick Pluta.

Misinformation and declining reading proficiency are reshaping how people engage with news and civic life. A series of conversations is kicking off on Tuesday to highlight the importance of media literacy. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Michigan officials Wednesday unveiled an $88.1 billion proposal for the next state budget. Rick Pluta and Colin Jackson have more in this joint report.

Ypsilanti Community Schools (YCS) kicks off Black History Month with "Hustle Your Heart Out," an immersive evening that blends cultural heritage with a focus on health and literacy. WEMU's Caroline MacGregor reports.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer says the top priority of her final year in office will be improving Michigan’s dismal student literacy scores. We have more from Rick Pluta.

The Ann Arbor School Board tonight is expected to give final approval to the purchase of new literacy materials through a state grant. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

In a world in which unity seems harder to come by, one local non-profit has found a way to help people connect in a creative way. The motto of Our Community Reads is, “A community that reads together, grows together.” Its founder and executive director is Kallista Marie. She discusses the work of the organization with WEMU's David Fair.

Efforts to combat income inequity and social justice have to have a strong foundational place from which to work. Literacy is right at the top of the list. Washtenaw Literacy is under new leadership, and it comes at a time when non-profits are struggling to find the financial support to maximize community impact. WEMU's David Fair talked with the new executive director, David Martineau, about the impact of the organization and where it goes from here.