Midview Local Schools is proud to announce that Midview North Elementary School and Midview West Elementary School have been named Governor’s Science of Reading Champion Award Schools for 2026, joining 109 schools across the state recognized for their strong implementation of evidence-based literacy instruction.
The Science of Reading, signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine in the summer of 2023, is a research-based approach to literacy instruction that reflects decades of research on how the human brain learns to read. Beginning in the 2024 academic year, Ohio schools were required to implement the Science of Reading curriculum, which focuses on the essential components of reading development: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This approach emphasizes "code-based" instruction, where students learn to map sounds to letters rather than guessing from pictures.
Governor DeWine introduced the Science of Reading Champion Award in 2025. This recognition from the Governor and the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce celebrates schools that demonstrate excellence in implementing these evidence-based strategies and strengthening literacy outcomes for students.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our North and West staff and their all-in commitment to supporting our students through best practices,” said Midview North Elementary Principal Bethany DiFranco. “It has been an honor to see our educators bring the Science of Reading to life through intentional and engaging learning experiences for our early learners. As a result, we are seeing students grow academically while also building the confidence that comes with true mastery.”
At Midview Local Schools, teachers and staff have worked diligently over the past several years to strengthen literacy instruction and ensure students receive the support they need to become confident, capable readers. Instructional improvements have included targeted small group instruction, flexible groupings to address individual learning needs, expanded academic intervention, and the addition of literacy coaches to support teacher development and classroom instruction.
In addition, Midview’s Building Leadership Teams and District Leadership Teams meet regularly to analyze state test and internal assessment data to monitor student literacy progress and adjust instructional practices. Teachers and reading intervention tutors also use various tools to identify at-risk readers early and provide targeted interventions to ensure no student falls behind.
“This recognition means so much because it honors the heart and effort our staff bring every single day,” said Midview West Elementary Principal Jordane Breha.” They believe deeply in the power of reading to change lives, and that commitment shows in the way they support every student and make literacy a priority in every classroom. As our students grow as readers, it opens doors for them in every subject and every part of their lives.”