Foundational literacy remains one of the strongest predictors of long-term academic success. Governor Mike DeWine’s announcement of new funding for Structured Literacy Centers reflects Ohio’s continued investment in strengthening reading instruction by supporting both current and future educators.

What You Need to Know

1. Ohio is investing $2.5 million in Structured Literacy Centers. Governor Mike DeWine announced funding for three universities to establish or expand Structured Literacy Centers: the University of Akron ($1 million), Bowling Green State University ($750,000), and Miami University ($750,000). These centers will prepare future teachers while providing professional development for current educators.
2. The initiative is grounded in the Science of Reading. Structured literacy draws on decades of research about how children learn to read. The centers will promote evidence-based instructional practices while helping educators identify and support students with dyslexia and other reading challenges.
3. This investment builds on Ohio’s broader literacy strategy. The announcement is part of the state’s ongoing ReadOhio initiative, which includes curriculum reform, literacy coaching, teacher preparation requirements, and statewide investments designed to improve reading outcomes.

Reading is the foundation upon which all other learning is built. Before students can analyze a historical event, solve a complex math problem, evaluate online information, or think critically about the media they consume, they must first be able to read with confidence and comprehension.

What makes this announcement especially noteworthy is its focus on educators. By strengthening teacher preparation programs and expanding professional development opportunities, Ohio is investing in the people who will shape literacy instruction for generations of students. That kind of investment has the potential to produce lasting change—not only in classrooms, but in communities across the state.

As conversations continue around artificial intelligence, misinformation, and digital citizenship, foundational literacy deserves to remain at the center of the discussion. Students cannot become critical thinkers if they first struggle to become confident readers.

What to Consider

• How can universities and local school districts work together to ensure research-based reading practices are implemented consistently?
• What additional supports do teachers need to successfully implement structured literacy practices?
• How might stronger foundational reading skills influence students’ ability to evaluate information in today’s increasingly digital world?

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Governor Mike DeWine, Governor DeWine Announces Funding for Structured Literacy Centers