Elementary Literacy Curriculum
The HMH Into Reading curriculum aligns with Michigan ELA content standards, as well as the Michigan Essential Literacy Elements, supporting key literacy areas such as phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This alignment enables a balanced, structured approach to reading instruction, allowing students to build foundational skills progressively. HMH Into Reading*also incorporates differentiated instruction through small-group activities, hands-on experiences, and targeted interventions, addressing diverse learner needs. By focusing on Michigan’s standards and engaging students with age-appropriate texts, HMH Into Reading fosters both skill development and a love for reading, preparing students for advanced literacy in future grades.
In accordance with Section 164k(e) of the Michigan State School Aid Act, Okemos Public Schools is issuing this notice regarding its K–5 literacy curriculum.
The district’s current K–5 literacy curriculum, HMH Into Reading (Version 2, 2020) , is not included on the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Recommended Literacy Materials List. Under Section 164k(e), curricula not included on this list are not designated by MDE as “evidence-based or aligned to state standards” through the recommended list process, “which could negatively impact student academic outcomes”.
Michigan law and MDE guidance (MDE Memo), does not require districts to select a curriculum from the MDE list. The list is not exhaustive and represents one method for demonstrating alignment.
Okemos Public Schools has conducted a local review process and maintains documentation indicating that its literacy curriculum is evidence-based and aligned to the science of reading, including systematic and explicit instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, consistent with MCL 380.1280f and MCL 388.1764k.
While the current K-5 literacy curriculum, HMH Into Reading (Version 2, 2020) is not included on the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Recommended Literacy Materials List, HMH Into Reading (Version 3, 2025) is included. The district has requested State grant funds to purchase the updated Into Reading (Version 3, 2025) curriculum components.
The district will continue to monitor literacy instruction, student data, and guidance from the MDE as part of its regular curriculum review cycle. Any future curriculum changes will be communicated to families.