Share this
by Connie Warren on Sep 24, 2025 3:43:42 PM
Strengthening Michigan Education Through High-Impact Tutoring
As Michigan enters the 2025–26 school year, the MI Kids Back on Track Tutoring Initiative continues to play a central role in helping students recover and thrive. With $150 million allocated, districts across the state have a unique opportunity to accelerate learning in reading and math, especially for students most impacted by unfinished learning.
Where We Are Now
Two years into the program, funding is moving beyond planning stages into full-scale implementation and results. District leaders are expected to:
-
Maintain a Back on Track plan in MiCIPS using evidence-based strategies from the MiStrategy Bank.
-
Submit applications and reporting through NexSys and MiDataHub.
-
Demonstrate how tutoring and summer learning programs are improving proficiency and closing gaps.
MDE continues to emphasize transparency and quality, with clear expectations for training, coaching, and data reporting to ensure dollars translate into real student growth.
Why This Year Matters
The 2025–26 school year is a turning point. Michigan’s investment is not just about recovery—it’s about setting higher expectations for student achievement. Funding allows districts to:
-
Provide targeted tutoring before, during, and after school
-
Expand summer learning opportunities
-
Support at-risk students preparing for college and careers
-
Use flexible models that meet local staffing and scheduling realities
The focus now is on measurable impact—elevating students to grade-level proficiency and building momentum that lasts beyond this school year.
Keys to Successful Implementation
Districts making the most of Back on Track funds this year share a few common approaches:
-
Evidence-Based Instruction – Tutoring aligned with Michigan standards and the Science of Reading.
-
Consistent Tutor Relationships – Students thrive when they see the same tutors session after session.
-
Small-Group or 1:1 Learning – Personalized support accelerates growth faster than whole-class interventions.
-
Actionable Data – Frequent progress checks help leaders adjust quickly and keep students moving forward.
The Road Ahead
Michigan’s $150 million investment represents one of the state’s most important commitments to closing achievement gaps. As districts navigate the 2025–26 school year, success depends on thoughtful planning, collaboration, and choosing partners who can deliver high-impact results at scale.
Learn More
BookNook provides live, small-group or 1:1 virtual tutoring designed around the Science of Reading and Michigan State Standards. With ESSA Tier 1 evidence and consistent tutor relationships, our platform helps districts deliver targeted, high-impact support that leads to measurable student growth in as little as 10 sessions.