A statewide education group says a federal lawsuit to require a standard of education be provided in Detroit schools could have broader implications for the state as a whole.
According to officials with the Michigan Education Association, the state's largest teachers union, the state of Michigan has repeatedly under invested in public schools.
David Crim is a spokesman for the MEA. He said that underinvestment has lowered the quality of education.
“The spectacular disinvestment we’ve seen in public schools has affected all districts not just Detroit.”
Crim said the case deals with a question over whether state residents have a right to a quality education.
“This case is a federal case in federal court brought under the 14th amendment because of civil rights issues but it doesn’t matter whether you’re black or brown or any color you’re right to a fundamental education is embedded in our belief.”
Crim said the case could build a foundation for arguing the state needs to increase its funding to public schools
“ I believe the outcome of the case in Detroit will have impact across the state.”
State courts have previously determined that there is no fundamental right to read.
The Attorney General's office did not immediately respond to our request for comment.