Really Great Reading's Exciting Expansion into Michigan's Education Sector

Really Great Reading Expands to Michigan

On June 17, 2025, Really Great Reading, known for its innovative approach to literacy instruction, announced a significant milestone: its inclusion on the Michigan Department of Education’s official roster of approved Tier 1 literacy programs. This addition marks a major achievement in the company's commitment to supporting educational outcomes and reflects its long-standing reputation for evidence-based instruction in reading.

The primary goal of Really Great Reading is to bolster reading proficiency among students, particularly those in grades K-3. Through a range of meticulously crafted materials that adhere to the latest educational standards and research findings, the company offers foundational literacy products and supplemental curricula. These resources encompass comprehensive instruction, assessment tools, and professional development initiatives designed to equip educators with the necessary skills to implement effective reading strategies.

Amy Vanden Boogart, the Vice President of Curriculum Products and Services at Really Great Reading, expressed excitement over this new development, stating, "Our programs are rooted in the science of reading, which mirrors Michigan's emphasis on evidence-based instruction. These partnerships are crucial as they foster opportunities for all students, from advanced readers to those who face challenges in literacy. We understand the lifelong ramifications of inadequate reading skills and are eager to enhance Michigan’s educational landscape, allowing us to reach more students."

With its recent accreditation, school districts throughout Michigan can now confidently adopt Really Great Reading’s Tier 1 curriculum and professional development offerings. The company ensures that coaching and implementation support are readily available, setting the stage for successful adoption and measurable improvement in reading outcomes across the state. Impressively, Really Great Reading was ranked second out of eleven newly listed offerings by the Michigan Department of Education, a testament to the efficacy of its programs.

Nancy Schulz, the Director of Professional Development and School Improvement at Wayne-Westland Community School District in Westland, Michigan, praised Really Great Reading for its impact, noting, "We have been thoroughly impressed with Really Great Reading and its success with students in our district. The data illustrates its effectiveness for both students and teachers alike. The products are user-friendly, hands-on, and engaging."

The science of reading has evolved significantly over the years, equipping educators and researchers with a deeper understanding of how to effectively teach reading to diverse student populations. Established two decades ago by Scott DeSimone, Really Great Reading emphasizes a well-defined scope and sequence that promotes essential skills such as letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and phonics instruction.

In light of the sobering results from this year's National Assessment of Educational Progress, which highlight that millions of children consistently fall behind in reading, the importance of an effective literacy program cannot be overstated. Insufficient reading skills can lead to long-term consequences, including diminished earnings potential, higher dropout rates, and broader economic disparities.

DeSimone conveyed his commitment to addressing these challenges, stating, "We know how to teach reading effectively. To truly shift the metrics, it is essential that every teacher is appropriately trained, that we provide diagnostic tools to identify and mend skill gaps, and that we utilize proven methods to assist older students."

In summary, Really Great Reading stands firm in its mission to empower educators and foster successful reading experiences among students. The company remains a leading provider of research-based literacy programs and materials and continuously strives to align its offerings with contemporary educational needs and standards. To discover more about their resources and approach, please visit Really Great Reading.