Opinion: A legislative agenda that puts students first

As Michigan begins the 2026 legislative year, we have an important opportunity to build on recent progress and continue strengthening public education across our state. The Michigan Department of Education is energized by the chance to work with legislators in positive collaboration, grounded in a shared belief that every Michigan student deserves a world-class education and that our work must always begin with Students First.

Glenn Maleyko became Michigan’s state superintendent of public instruction in December 2025. He spent 30 years in Dearborn Public Schools, most recently serving as superintendent. (Courtesy of Michigan Department of Education)

Earlier this month, I sent state lawmakers and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer a letter outlining the Michigan Department of Education’s 2026 legislative priorities. These priorities are aligned with Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan and reflect practical, high-impact actions designed to improve outcomes for students while ensuring equity, opportunity and long-term success regardless of ZIP code or circumstance.

I appreciate the strong bipartisan support legislators and the governor have shown for public education in recent years. Significant investments in literacy, early learning, Career and Technical Education, school meals and student supports have made a real difference for Michigan’s children. While there is more work to do, continued progress will depend on maintaining a spirit of partnership and keeping student needs at the center of every policy and budget decision.

Among our 2026 priorities:

Literacy and early learning implementation at scale

Improving literacy is my top priority as state superintendent because it is foundational to all learning. Michigan has built strong momentum through recent literacy and dyslexia legislation and coordinated statewide efforts, including a statewide Literacy Summit convened with the State Board of Education and the governor’s office.

The next phase of this work must focus on consistent, high-quality implementation across districts. We are asking legislators to continue supporting structured literacy professional learning aligned with the science of reading, including Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS), so that all educators responsible for early literacy instruction can complete high-quality training. We are also seeking continued investment in evidence-based literacy materials to ensure statewide coherence and equitable access for students

Adequate and equitable school funding

Michigan has made important progress in recent budgets, particularly for economically disadvantaged students, English learners, students with disabilities, early childhood education and pupil transportation. These gains must continue as the state works toward greater adequacy and equity in school funding.

Sustained investment is essential to ensure that all students, especially those with the greatest needs, have access to high-quality educational opportunities and the supports necessary to succeed

Expanded learning and summer programming

High-quality expanded learning opportunities, including summer programs, play a critical role in supporting academic growth, enrichment, and student engagement. Well-designed summer learning programs have demonstrated positive impacts on literacy, attendance and overall student well-being, particularly for students experiencing learning gaps or disrupted education.

The department is requesting dedicated funding to support district-operated summer learning programs, while also leveraging strategic partnerships with philanthropy to scale proven models and meet local needs

Career readiness and career and technical education

Michigan has made strong strides in career readiness and high school relevance, and student interest in career and technical education (CTE) continues to grow. CTE programs provide meaningful pathways to both postsecondary education and high-wage careers.

We are proposing continued investment to expand state-approved CTE programs through competitive grants, middle school pilots and public awareness efforts, building on bipartisan support for this important work

Educator workforce stability and student safety

A strong education system depends on a stable, effective educator workforce. Michigan has made progress in addressing workforce challenges, but continued attention is needed to recruit and retain high-quality educators, modernize outdated systems and ensure policies promote student safety while avoiding unnecessary administrative burdens.

Our priorities include continuing educator recruitment and retention efforts, modernizing compliance systems, and strengthening protections for students through thoughtful, targeted policy updates

Student health and learning conditions

Students cannot fully engage in learning when their basic needs are unmet. That is why we are calling on legislators to support student health and learning conditions, including codifying the Michigan School Meals program into state law. Providing free breakfast and lunch to all students improves nutrition security, reduces stigma, and helps ensure students are ready to learn each day.

We also seek continued support for resources such as the Michigan eLibrary and initiatives that expand student engagement and access to learning beyond the classroom.

Michigan’s 2026 education priorities reflect a clear commitment to collaboration, shared responsibility and putting Students First. By strengthening classrooms, supporting educators and ensuring the state has the capacity to effectively serve schools, we can continue building a public education system that delivers opportunity, equity, and results for every Michigan student.