Goshen Local Schools welcomed Ohio Governor Mike DeWine on Monday, May 4, where he officially recognized a Goshen elementary school as a “Science of Reading Champion” and presented new eyeglasses to elementary students through the Ohio School Eye Exam (SEE) program.
During his visit, Governor DeWine toured Marr/Cook Elementary to witness firsthand the district’s implementation of early literacy instruction. Marr/Cook was one of just 109 schools across the state to earn recognition for evidence-based instructional practices that helped students make significant progress in literacy.
Governor DeWine visited the classroom of teacher Amy Smallwood to observe her second grade students in a live demonstration of the science of reading in action. This evidence-based approach to instruction focuses on foundational skills—such as phonemic awareness, phonics, and comprehension—ensuring every student has the tools they need to become a confident, lifelong reader.
Smallwood is a 22-year teaching veteran and a Goshen graduate herself. Following the classroom visit, the Governor presented a large banner to officially recognize Marr/Cook Elementary as a 2026 “Science of Reading Champion.”
Governor DeWine then moved to the Marr/Cook gymnasium where several hundred students and families were gathered to witness a small group of students receive new eyewear through the Ohio SEE program. This initiative championed by the Governor is to ensure that young students receive vital vision screenings, comprehensive eye exams, and free glasses if needed, right at their schools.
“We are incredibly honored to welcome Governor DeWine to our district,” said Brian Bailey, Superintendent of Goshen Local Schools. “Success in public education requires vision from the top, and we are fortunate to have a leader in Columbus who has made the “Science of Reading” and children’s health a cornerstone of his administration.”
Marr/Cook Elementary has received other recognitions for making sure students are reading on grade level. Most recently in August 2025, the building received a $5,000 grant from Dollar General Stores to help support the school’s Accelerated Reader program.
