There were smiles, laughter and a few unforgettable moments as Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer visited Henry Doerr Early Childhood Center on Wednesday to read with pre-kindergarten students.
Gathered on the carpet, students listened closely as Whitmer read The Runaway Mitten, joining in on the story and eagerly engaging throughout the visit.
At one point, Whitmer asked the class, “Do you know who I am?”
The response came quickly and confidently.
“Yes!” the class shouted.
“You’re Governor Whitmer,” one student said.
Another added, “You’re so pretty like a Barbie,” drawing laughter from the room.
“I like your eyelashes,” another student shared.
Moments like those captured the heart of the visit — a reminder that for these students, the day was about connection, curiosity and the joy of reading.
Following the classroom visit, students continued to take center stage during a brief press conference, where three Henry Doerr students stood at a podium and introduced Governor Whitmer to those in attendance.
Superintendent Dr. Ramont Roberts, Governor Whitmer, State Representative Amos O’Neal, and state education leaders were on hand to highlight the importance of early literacy and learning.
Stacey Urbani, a Herig Elementary first-grade teacher who is LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) certified, also joined them at the podium.
The visit reflected Michigan’s broader focus on early childhood education through initiatives like PreK for All, which aims to expand access to high-quality pre-kindergarten programs and ensure students begin school with a strong foundation.
Part of that work includes strengthening reading instruction through programs like LETRS, which provides educators with research-based strategies to support early readers.
At Henry Doerr, that work is already taking shape in classrooms every day, as students build foundational skills through engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
Wednesday’s visit brought added excitement to Reading Month — and gave students a moment they won’t soon forget.