North Adams Elementary School
, Peebles Elementary School and West Union Elementary School found out today that they were all n
amed 2026 Governor’s Science of Reading Champion
s!
The district is proud to announce that all three of our elementary buildings have been officially recognized by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin as a Governor’s Science of Reading Champions.
This prestigious designation is awarded to a select group of schools across the state - 109 in total for the 2026 class - that demonstrate a proven commitment to high-quality literacy instruction aligned with the Science of Reading. The award recognizes schools where evidence-based instructional practices are being implemented with fidelity and where students are making significant measurable progress.
The application for this designation was a collaborative effort led by the district’s instructional coaches and the Assistant Superintendent, who sought to highlight the rigorous work occurring within the school’s classrooms.
The recognition is the result of a dedicated four-year endeavor focused on transforming literacy outcomes. This success is rooted in the strong implementation of the school’s current structured literacy core curriculum and targeted intervention programming. Furthermore, the designation celebrates the advanced, specialized training completed by both teaching staff and administrators to master the mechanics of how children learn to read.
“This designation celebrates each school’s proven commitment to providing every student with high-quality literacy instruction,” noted the Department of Education and Workforce in their congratulatory announcement. “These schools are demonstrating strong implementation of evidence-based instructional practices where students are making significant progress.”
As part of this recognition, each elementary will receive a celebratory banner to display at the school. The schools also plan to utilize the official Science of Reading Champion logo on future materials to highlight this significant achievement.
The district extends its deepest gratitude to the teachers, staff, students, and families whose hard work and support have made this transformation possible. The schools remain committed to ensuring that every student develops the foundational literacy skills necessary for lifelong success.
About the Governor’s Science of Reading Champion Awards:
Developed by Governor Mike DeWine in coordination with the Department of Education and Workforce, this program recognizes Ohio schools that have successfully transitioned to literacy instruction based on the Science of Reading, ensuring that all students have access to the most effective, research-proven reading methods.
Congratulations to our three elementary buildings!