Voter guide 2026: Michigan education board candidates on literacy, funding, and accountability

Michigan's State Board of Education is an elected body responsible for overseeing the Michigan Department of Education and establishing policies for public schools. This year, four candidates from the four major parties are vying for two eight-year terms on the board. The candidates are Democrats Judith Pritchett and Tiffany Tilley, both incumbents, and Republicans Terence Collins and Bree Moeggenberg.

Literacy and curriculum are among the top priorities for these candidates. The Michigan Legislature, state education department, and Governor Gretchen Whitmer have all emphasized the importance of improving literacy in recent years. Recent exams show that only 44% of students in grades 3-8 were proficient in English language arts, with third graders performing even worse at 38.2%. Nationally, only 24% of fourth graders were considered proficient in reading according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

Candidates agree that early identification of students struggling with literacy and providing additional support is crucial. They also stress the need for evidence-based interventions and curriculum in schools. Early literacy is particularly important, as is implementing the state's literacy law and restoring instructional focus in classrooms. Full comments from the candidates on their priorities and responses to other questions about Michigan's education system can be found in the voter guide below.