Detroit schools are making real gains in reading and math: 4 strategies that are working

Detroit Public Schools Community District is showing measurable progress in student literacy and math after decades of underperformance. A 2016 lawsuit settlement, which provided $94.4 million, funded 18 reading interventionists like Aja Penick at Munger Elementary-Middle School, where students receive targeted instruction. The district’s proficiency rates rose to 15.4% in reading and 12.3% in math on 2025 state tests, outperforming national trends despite still lagging behind other urban districts. The improvement follows years of crisis, including rodent-infested classrooms, teacher shortages, and unqualified staff during periods of state control. Researchers at Harvard, Stanford, and Dartmouth noted Detroit’s gains as a rare bright spot amid a national ‘reading recession.’ Superintendent Nikolai Vitti credited the success to science-based reading programs, data tracking, and reduced absenteeism, though he warned against complacency. The legal settlement funding, which drove the intervention efforts, is set to expire soon, raising concerns about sustaining progress. District leaders emphasize the need for continued investment to maintain momentum. Mayor Mary Sheffield separately highlighted broader improvements in Detroit’s Census numbers, though education remains a critical focus. Detroit’s turnaround reflects a shift from systemic neglect to targeted interventions, but challenges persist. The district must now secure alternative funding to keep interventionists employed and expand support programs. Without intervention, experts warn, gains could reverse amid ongoing resource constraints.