Governor honors UA elementary schools as Science of Reading Champions

Upper Arlington Schools recently welcomed Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine and Ohio Director of Education and Workforce Stephen Dackin to Greensview Elementary School for a visit that highlighted both celebration and purpose — recognizing all five of the district’s elementary schools as Governor’s Science of Reading Champions.

This recognition was awarded to just over 100 schools statewide for their commitment to evidence-based literacy practices and strong student outcomes, and Upper Arlington Schools is among an even smaller group of districts across Ohio to have every elementary building earn the honor. 

“Greensview Elementary and Upper Arlington Schools are setting a positive example for the rest of the state,” said Governor DeWine. “We know the Science of Reading is the best method for teaching children how to read. Upper Arlington’s longstanding commitment to the Science of Reading is giving their students the confidence they need to become strong readers and reach their full potential.”

During the visit, Governor DeWine spent time with teachers and administrators discussing Upper Arlington’s approach to literacy instruction before visiting classrooms to see the work in action. In each room, students were actively engaged in foundational reading skills — a reflection of years of intentional focus on instructional practices grounded in the Science of Reading.

He praised Upper Arlington’s schools as “champions of the Science of Reading,” pointing to the district as an example of what is possible when educators remain committed to proven practices and continuous improvement.

The visit also provided an opportunity to recognize the educators behind the work. From classroom teachers to instructional leaders, Upper Arlington staff have built a system focused on ensuring every child develops strong literacy skills — a foundation for lifelong learning.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Hunt emphasized that the recognition reflects years of collaboration and dedication across the district.

“This recognition is a testament to the commitment of our teachers, staff, and school leaders who work every day to ensure our students build strong reading foundations,” said Robert Hunt. “We are proud of the work happening in our classrooms and grateful for the opportunity to share it with Governor DeWine and education leaders from across Ohio.”

The Science of Reading Champions designation is part of Ohio’s broader effort to improve literacy outcomes by aligning instruction with decades of research on how children learn to read. Schools earning the recognition demonstrate strong implementation of these practices and measurable progress in student learning.

For Upper Arlington Schools, the visit served as both a celebration and a reminder of the work ahead. While the district is proud of the recognition, leaders and educators remain focused on continuing to refine instruction and support every learner — ensuring every student has the opportunity to grow as a confident, capable reader.