Education

Across the state, schools saw a higher success rate in passing bonds than in the past two elections. Still, central and northern school districts mostly rejected bond proposals.

Michigan lawmakers are debating a bill that would require school board candidates to run with party labels, ending the state’s long nonpartisan tradition. Education groups warn the proposal could inject politics into local districts and limit who can serve.

The grant would help colleges better track academic progress so students can automatically get a two-year degree once they meet the requirements—even if they already transferred out.

Some new items in the guidelines include discussions about social media and newer technology, gender identity and sexuality, and boundary setting.

The Michigan Education Association and the Michigan League for Public Policy say that the state’s increased appropriations for education this year can help school districts reduce class sizes and improve student performance.

Central Michigan University President Neil MacKinnon spoke on numerous university challenges and successes, including low enrollment and on-campus changes, during the annual State of the University Address on Wednesday.

Many of these bonds are repeats from years past. Proposals include general school funding, infrastructure upgrades and more.

The federal government shutdown has suspended payouts to the federally funded Head Start program. Nine of Michigan's 48 Head Start programs were to receive funding on Nov. 1 to serve nearly 3,000 children with childcare, early education, as well as health support.

About 72% of Michigan high school students are unready for college, the Michigan League for Public Policy says. Reasons include living in poverty, food insecurity, COVID pandemic online teaching and less-than-effective methods of teaching reading.

Violence by students against teachers and other school staff is on the rise. Data from the Center for Educational Performance and Information shows physical violence is a major component of expulsions statewide. The MEA has created a task force on the issue. We talk to teachers from Traverse City, Alpena and Menominee County.