Equity, Equity Everywhere
In the early weeks of the legislative session, a number of lawmakers have introduced measures to address the funding equity gap in K-12 public education. It is a top GLEP priority to reduce the nearly $1,000 gap between the Minimum and Basic per-pupil foundation grant, so we’re pleased this much attention is being focused on this issue. Measures introduced so far include the following:
It is important to note these measures only address the foundation grant intended to cover basic operational costs, while there remains nearly $5 billion in additional funding is available to address at-risk, special education and other targeted needs for students. The proposed School Aid Budget will be presented by Governor Snyder on February 11 and the Senate School Aid Subcommittee, chaired by Sen. Geoff Hansen (R-Hart) and House School Aid Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Tim Kelly (R-Saginaw) will then begin hearings.
MSU Report: Charter Opponents are Losing
Announcing a new report, released published by Michigan State University, outlines why opponents of charter public schools are putting forth losing arguments when compared to supporters of these innovate, independent public school options. This is good news for students and families! Go Green!! Click here to download the full report.
Will Congress Reauthorizes NCLB This Year?
The landmark “No Child Left Behind” federal education law was passed in 1999 and technically was to expire in 2000. Rather than pass a full reauthorization of this law back then, Congress has continued to extend the existing law and USED has offered waivers from NCLB to states, including Michigan. This has led to a patchwork of different regulations throughout the country. Many observers believe that 2015 will be the year that Congress will pass a new federal education law, and the question remains if President Obama will sign what is presented by Congress. Below are links to recent statements from the primary players in this debate.
Testing, Accountability and the New ESEA/NCLB
The debate over annual testing has taken center stage as Congress considers reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), or No Child Left Behind (NCLB). Assessments provide critical information for parents and legislators on student progress, but when does annual testing become over testing? And will it survive reauthorization? Click here to watch a recent event featuring Fordham’s Mike Petrilli and AEI’s Mike McShane on testing and accountability in the wake of last week’s Senate hearing on the new ESEA/NCLB.
There’s Still Time to Apply for State Superintendent Position
The official search for a new Superintendent of Public Instruction to replace the retiring Mike Flanagan is underway. The State Board of Education has hired Ray and Associates to manage the search process. The application deadline is February 19, 2015, with final interviews likely in mid-March. Initial salary is set at $200,000, and interested candidates can click here to learn more about the position and apply online.
Education Reform News Clips
Monday, February 2
Tuesday, February 3
Wednesday, February 4
Thursday, February 5
Friday, February 6
Do you support what GLEP is doing to improve education in Michigan? Please consider making a donation to help us continue our efforts, and all contributions are very much appreciated!!
Respectfully,
Gary G. Naeyaert