As we all know, Michigan's economic recovery is
predicated on young people being ready for post-
secondary, work and life. This fact is acutely visible as
there has been pressure for
community members and Legislators to make
changes that move more young people into
educational success. Plus, the federal government
has added pressure on states for
several years, culminating in current funding
initiatives, particularly a competitive grant program
called "Race to the Top."
As guidelines for "Race to the Top" were released,
Legislators began to focus on the
components of state law deemed necessary
to improve Michigan's competitiveness for the grant. At
the end of
December 2009, a series of
bills were passed and signed into law by Governor
Granholm.
Some of the changes affect school restructuring,
teacher and administrative certification and evaluation,
high school curriculum requirements, and the legal
drop out age before graduation. Click here for more
details about the package of legislation.
Although Michigan's Children applauds the
Legislature and is encouraged by these actions, we
believe that there is still much more to be done to "Get
to the Top."
Now is the perfect time for advocates to
talk with Legislators about what we expect in school
reform efforts, especially as we enter another tough
budget year with significant cuts
likely ahead to programs and services for our most
vulnerable unless revenue options are explored.
Read our latest Issues for
Michigan's Children on education called, "Getting to
the
Top: 2009 Education Reform Decisions and Things
Left Undone," for details about the legislation that was
passed, points on what is still needed in reform, and
steps and resources for advocates to be engaged in
the policy process.
