Copper Island Academy is honored to be among the 39 school districts in Michigan selected to receive a Reading Excellence and Advancing District (READ) Innovation Grant from the Michigan Department of Education. CIA was awarded $118,520 in Section 35n funds to launch its Woods to Words literacy project.
Woods to Words will bring literacy learning outdoors, using the natural environment as a classroom to build vocabulary, spark curiosity, and strengthen reading and writing skills. Students will explore the woods, fields, and trails around campus while connecting their experiences to stories, language, and expression. By blending hands-on exploration with research-based literacy instruction, the project will create memorable learning opportunities that deepen students’ connection to both nature and words.
“We know that kids learn best when they are engaged and active,” School Director Nora Laho shared. “With this grant, we’re able to create innovative experiences that help students grow as readers and writers in a way that is authentic and engaging.”
Copper Island Academy is proud to be part of this statewide effort to improve literacy achievement through creativity and innovation. We are grateful to the Michigan Department of Education and the Michigan Legislature for investing in programs that inspire students and strengthen learning across Michigan.
