Reading Improvement Efforts in Wisconsin
Under the direction of Dr. Jill Underly, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has engaged in several efforts to support schools in delivering high-quality reading for all learners. Highlights include the State Superintendent's Reading Advisory Council, a diverse group of Wisconsin community members committed to strengthening literacy learning in Wisconsin's schools and supporting and implementing 2023 Wisconsin Act 20. This website will be updated with information about all efforts to implement 2023 Wisconsin Act 20 and to improve reading.
Latest Updates
November 28: The DPI Annual Report:
The DPI submitted its annual report:, as required by law, to the Wisconsin State Legislature. This report contains information about the number of students below the 25th percentile on the required early literacy screening and information about how these students responded to instruction. The full report and additional information can be found on this webpage.
August 18: Early Literacy Newsletter with updates about:
- WI Reads: Website Updates
- 25-26 Screening and Rostering
- Due August 29: Professional Development Training Survey
- Reading Advisory Council Application: accepted through September 5
- Professional Learning: Language and Literacy for Students with Significant Support Needs
August 4, 2025: Early Literacy Newsletter with updates about:
- Reading Advisory Council Application (due August 5, 2025)
- 2025 - 2026 screening
July 25, 2025: Early Literacy Newsletter with updates about:
- Screening in 2025 - 2026
- Reimbursement for early literacy curriculum and professional development training - Applications close August 1, 2025
- Professional development training survey
- Early literacy coaching program
- A book suggestion for young people and adults
July 3, 2025: Funding Update
Funding has been approved for early literacy coaches, professional development training reimbursement, and early literacy curriculum (partial reimbursement). Sign up for the Early Literacy Newsletter for more information, as it becomes available.
June 26, 2025:
Applications for reimbursement for professional development training and early literacy curriculum are open through August 1, 2025. The links below should be used for new applications only. If you've already submitted, there is no need to resubmit.
Click here to access guidance about the professional development training reimbursement requests. Applications closed August 1, 2025.
Click here to access guidance about the early literacy curriculum partial reimbursement requests. Applications closed August 1, 2025.
June 25, 2025: DPI response to the Wisconsin State Supreme Court ruling about Act 100, a call to release the funds. A press release from Dr. Jill Underly, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, can be found here. A letter from Dr. Barb Novak, Director of the Office of Literacy, can be found here.
May 22, 2025: Stronger Together: Advancing Early Literacy Learning, a summer learning opportunity to plan for 2025-2026 early literacy work
May 22, 2025: Updated guidance on the professional development training requirement and a form to submit for reimbursement
April 2, 2025: Application for Partial Curriculum Reimbursement Grant
April 2, 2025: Application for Diagnostic Assessment Reimbursement Available 4/23/25
April 2, 2025: Updated Promotion Policy Guidance