Dr. Michael F. Rice Michigan superintendent of public instruction | Michigan Department of Education
A report released today assesses the state of Michigan's education system and offers recommendations for improvement. The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) has expressed mixed reactions to the findings.
"The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) agrees with some findings in the report and disagrees with others," said State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. He noted that the report "offers no significant new research or fresh insight about knowledge, education policy, or ways to improve student achievement."
The report suggests giving more authority to the governor over K-12 education policy, a move opposed by MDE and the State Board of Education. The board unanimously voted against this idea at its April 8 meeting, with member Tom McMillin stating: "Too much authority and influence vested in any one political actor creates a situation where short-term political gain could too easily be placed above the best interests of students."
The document also recommends increasing MDE's capacity to support school districts by providing more resources and staffing. Dr. Rice emphasized that despite limited staff numbers, MDE provides substantial support to local schools.
Further suggestions include restructuring regional educational service agencies (ISDs) for greater involvement in education and improving early literacy and numeracy through coordinated state-level efforts.
On district consolidation, ISDs are encouraged to assist local districts in sharing services efficiently. The legislature has already funded grants for technology sharing among schools.
Regarding school choice, the report advises focusing on charter school quality rather than quantity. Dr. Rice pointed out that "the number of charter schools has grown well beyond student and parent need."
In terms of finance, the report aligns with recommendations from the School Finance Resource Collaborative about underfunding issues despite recent funding increases signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
State Board President Dr. Pamela Pugh criticized governance recommendations as opinion-based rather than data-driven: "It is troubling that the report leans on opinion over data." She emphasized protecting public education's independence from political agendas.
The $500,000 fiscal year 2024 budget appropriation funded this University of Michigan-led analysis led by Dr. Brian Jacob.
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