To prosper, Michigan must be a more educated place. Bridge will explore the challenges in education and identify policies and initiatives that address them.
Experts have warned that the pandemic’s effect on learning would last for a long time. Now, Michigan scores show third graders are scoring worse on reading than third graders prior to the pandemic.
Michigan schools are still secluding and restraining students, mostly those with disabilities, at high numbers despite a 2016 law designed to limit the controversial practice. One special education school is beginning to police itself.
Michigan has bet big on tuition-free community college for some adults. As federal pandemic funds expire, a state leader says the state is looking for ways to extend expanded eligibility.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says Michigan is providing ‘access to free pre-K for every 4-year-old.’ But less than half of eligible kids are expected to enroll.
The tiny district has hired an island resident — who’s also a custodian and real estate agent — as its long-term substitute teacher. The district plans to use a ‘grow your own’ program to help her earn teaching credentials.
Michigan will help cover student loan payments for about 8,460 educators in the first round of a $250 million program. Many districts didn’t apply on behalf of their teachers, so only $17 million went out last month.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says the new state budget will mean an average $400 per pupil increase for Michigan schools. Education leaders say it’s a little more complicated.
The cost of college can be a barrier for students to pursue higher education. A new Michigan program expands student access to tuition-free community college.
Michigan’s new education budget includes $25 million in dedicated funding for student mental health and school safety — but that’s $301.5 million less than last year.
High sticker prices and a fear of debt may be prompting Michigan high school students to opt out of college. National data suggests getting a college degree is still worth it.
Women are in the majority at almost every college and university in Michigan, with an increasing percentage of men choosing work over schooling, new data shows.