LANSING — In another effort to boost student literacy skills, Michigan lawmakers are considering requiring college students to learn about the “science of reading” before getting a state teaching certificate. 

Under House Bill 5646, teacher candidates and the Michigan Department of Education would face new restrictions starting Sept. 30, 2027.

It’s part of a broader effort to address low student achievement: Third-grade reading scores are at a new low on state tests and just 24% of fourth graders are proficient on a national test.

“A teacher certificate is not a participation trophy, it is a guarantee to the parents of Michigan that this individual can actually teach their child…to read,” said bill sponsor State Rep. Tim Kelly, R-Saginaw. 

“HB5646 isn’t just a policy update, it’s a long overdue rescue mission for the next generation of Michigan’s workers, citizens and leaders,” said Kelly, “We have a moral and economic obligation to ensure that every cent of taxpayer money going into teacher preparation produces an educator who is a master of the science of reading.”…