Michigan literacy crisis sparks new Local 4 “'Turn The Page' series

Local 4 is launching something new, and something we believe matters to every family in Michigan. It’s called “Turn The Page Michigan,” a commitment from us to focus on one of the most important challenges facing our state: literacy. Right now, Michigan ranks 44th in the country in reading. Only about four in 10 fourth graders are reading at grade level. And even more alarming, more than 60% of third graders did not pass the reading exam. That means thousands of kids are falling behind before they even leave elementary school. That’s why we’re launching Turn The Page Michigan. You’ll see stories that go beyond the headlines, highlighting what’s working, what’s not, where the gaps are, and how communities are stepping up. But most importantly, what changes need to be made? This isn’t about blame, it’s about solutions. How can Michigan turn the page? Our first story takes us up north to Mesick, a small town between Traverse City and Cadillac. The literacy rates there are even worse: 20-30%.