© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Right to Read | WKAR Special

girl reading picture book
WKAR-MSU
Right to Read signature image of girl reading picture book.

Thu. Mar. 3 at 8 p.m. on WKAR-HD 23.1 & STREAMING | Parents, educators, and experts provide an in-depth look at literacy issues in Michigan. Watch and call or DONATE HERE for special offers.

Right to Read delves into the state’s childhood literacy crisis and the attempts to close inequities within the educational system. It takes a moving look at the Michigan families attempting to secure their child’s right to read.

In 2016, Michigan passed the Read by Grade Three Law, which requires third grade students to pass a reading test in order to move to the next grade. But is retention the best solution? Meanwhile, how can the entire community work together to encourage the joy of reading and promote childhood literacy at home?

WKAR has closed the gap left by the loss of federal funding. Because of you, trusted journalism, inspiring stories, and classical music remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan.
Now the work continues — your monthly gift helps maintain this success and keeps public media free for all.