TalentFirst
Share
06/17/2026
The latest review of teacher preparation programs reinforces what many of us have been seeing on the ground: progress is real—but too many aspiring teachers are still not being trained in evidence-based reading instruction.
That matters. Because the research is clear—nearly all students can learn to read when instruction aligns with what we know works. In fact, researchers estimate more than 90% of all students could learn to read if they had access to instruction aligned with this body of evidence.
This is exactly where our West Michigan Early Literacy Collaborative is focused.
We’re working alongside K-12 systems and teaching colleges to better align preparation and practice—grounded in the science of reading and informed by real classroom needs. Not as a simple critique of the system, but as a commitment to strengthen it together.
We also know change here isn’t immediate. It requires sustained partnership, shared accountability, and a willingness to act on both data and evidence.
The opportunity is in front of us.
If we align preparation, practice, and policy—we can ensure every child has the opportunity to become a strong reader.
Check out the review: https://teacherquality.nctq.org/review/standard/Reading-Foundations/2026
Visit our West Michigan Early Literacy Collaborative page for more info on our work: https://talentfirst.net/literacy-collaborative/
Read the article: https://www.chalkbeat.org/2026/06/09/half-of-teacher-prep-programs-teach-science-of-reading-nctq-report-says/
A new report on teacher prep and reading instruction has both good news and bad news The share of teacher preparation programs fully aligned with the science of reading has doubled, the National Council on Teacher Quality reported. But that leaves hundreds that are falling short, and many programs declined to participate in NCTQ’s study.
A milestone worth celebrating—and a powerful moment for literacy for Muskegon.
Yesterday, Read Muskegon opened the doors to its new Literacy Center in Muskegon Heights, and the energy around it says everything about what this moment means for the community. The transformation of a long-vacant building into a vibrant hub for learning and connection is a powerful example of what innovative, community-led solutions can look like in practice.
This new space reflects more than a physical transformation. It’s a thoughtful investment in the future—expanding access to one-on-one tutoring, creating space for learning, and even removing barriers through supports like free childcare for participants.
At TalentFirst, we see efforts like this as foundational to a strong and thriving region. Literacy is not just an education issue—it is directly tied to workforce readiness, economic mobility, and long-term opportunity. When individuals build the skills and confidence to read, learn, and navigate systems, it strengthens families, employers, and communities alike.
Congratulations to Melissa Moore and the entire Read Muskegon team on this incredible milestone. This is exactly the kind of leadership and innovation that moves West Michigan forward.
06/04/2026
A strong talent pipeline doesn’t happen by chance—it’s intentionally built.
At TalentFirst, our strategy centers on helping students leave high school with clear, connected pathways into postsecondary education, credentials, and careers aligned to real workforce demand. That requires alignment across education and industry, shared expectations, and meaningful, work-based experiences.
We saw that approach in action earlier this spring.
In March, nearly 250 leaders from across West Michigan came together for our Career Readiness Conference—not just to connect, but to focus on practical strategies partners can apply now.
But the work didn’t end when the conference did—it accelerated it.
To support ongoing action, we’ve launched the Career Readiness in Action hub—designed to help partners strengthen career pathways year-round.
👉https://talentfirst.net/career-readiness-in-action/
Inside are tools, resources, and connections to move from ideas to impact.
Because building a stronger, more aligned talent pipeline takes sustained effort—and it’s work we all have a role in advancing.
This isn’t a moment. It’s sustained, systems-level work—and we invite you to be part of it.
Read our blog about this work ⬇️
https://talentfirst.net/preparing-every-high-school-student-for-career-success/
Preparing Every High School Student for Career Success Preparing every high school student for career success is essential to the long‑term economic health of West Michigan and a priority for TalentFirst. Our region’s ability to compete and grow […]
04/13/2026
Early literacy isn’t just an education issue—it’s a talent imperative.
In West Michigan, only 45.2% of third graders are reading proficiently. That’s why TalentFirst is investing early and partnering across sectors to drive real impact—from classroom libraries to recognizing schools leading the way in literacy outcomes.
When students learn to read, our workforce—and our future—gets stronger.
Read:
Investing in Literacy to Strengthen Michigan’s Talent Pipeline At TalentFirst, early literacy is foundational to our mission of strengthening West Michigan’s long‑term talent pipeline. Reading is not just an academic milestone—it is a critical life skill that shapes […]
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
Category
Telephone
Website
Address
833 Kenmoor Avenue SE, Suite B
Grand Rapids, MI
49546
