In 2016, Michigan passed legislation mandating struggling readers repeat third grade. The law implies that punishment is the answer to improving literacy. This answer misses the real question...
What is literacy?
In this multi-part documentary series, we present interviews with researchers, policymakers, activists, families, and community members to take a closer look at the implications of Michigan's Read by Grade 3 law. By re-asking the fundamental question, "What is literacy?" and seeing it as power, community, love, and something deeply personal, this series redefines what it means to be a successful reader and a literate individual.