Henry County Schools approves new unified literacy plan

HENRY COUNTY — Henry County Schools is implementing a new literacy plan aimed at improving reading achievement across the district following the passage of Georgia's Early Literacy Act of 2026. Board of Education members unanimously approved the district’s Unified Literacy Plan at Monday’s meeting, six months after Gov. Brian Kemp signed the Act. Chief Learning and Performance Office Cleveland Johnson III presented the plan to the Board during the study session portion. “This Unified Literacy Plan provides a structured, aligned and research-based road map to increase reading achievement across our district,” Johnson said. Henry County Schools’ plan supports the district's goal of student achievement and readiness as well as its commitment to improving literacy across all grade levels. The Unified Literacy Plan includes five main points: — Early learning and readiness. — Adolescent literacy. — Screening and core instruction in grades kindergarten through third grade. — Family and community partnerships. — Teacher supports and accountability. Makenzie McDaniel, Board Vice-Chair, said he reviewed the plan. He highlighted how it features aspects implemented by the district before the legislation — intervention, MTSS-related items. McDaniel then asked Johnson what would be the effect if the Board did not approve this proposed plan. “If