Between 2013 and 2024, reading scores for the lowest-performing students dropped significantly across 40+ states — but one state defied the trend: Mississippi.
Despite being the poorest state in the country, Mississippi’s literacy gains—especially among Black and low-income students—are now leading the nation.
How? They didn’t just tweak policy. They invested in literacy coaches, screened early for reading struggles, engaged parents, and required real change in classrooms.
Results: Reading scores rose across the board—raising both the floor and the ceiling.
Here in Michigan, we’ve got policies on the books, but research shows that only truly comprehensive approaches move the needle.
As a TCAPS Board of Education trustee, I believe we must look closely at what’s working—not just what’s popular.
Mississippi’s success is a powerful reminder that real student growth happens when adult behavior and systems shift.
Let’s get bold about reading.
Read “There Really Was a ‘Mississippi Miracle’ in Reading. States Should Learn From It”
Cute photo of some former Silver Lake Elementary Seahawks who graduated this year
TY FOR TCAPS 
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