SE Oakland News

State Senator Thomas Albert, along with two Republican colleagues, has introduced new legislation aimed at addressing the challenges faced by Michigan's public schools. The proposed measures seek to refocus efforts on student achievement and restore accountability within the education system.

The legislative package aims to reinstate key components of Michigan’s "Read by Grade Three" law, which connects student performance closely with teacher evaluations. It also seeks to repeal certain education policies previously approved by Lansing Democrats that Republicans argue have contributed to declining student performance.

Albert expressed concern over recent educational trends in Michigan, stating, “Over the past few years, Lansing Democrats have watered down standards for our schools at the expense of students across Michigan.” He emphasized that the focus should be on helping students succeed and restoring accountability.

The plan includes several reforms such as increasing in-person instruction days, addressing chronic absenteeism, and limiting cellphone usage in schools. These measures are part of a broader effort to improve academic outcomes as Michigan continues to struggle with declining performance since the pandemic.

According to 2024 data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, Michigan ranked 44th among states in average reading scores for fourth graders. Additionally, English proficiency rates for third graders were lower than those recorded in eight out of the last ten years based on results from the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP).

Albert acknowledged that while this legislative package may not resolve all issues within the state's education system, it represents a significant step forward. “This package will not solve all of the problems in our schools, but it’s a massive step in the right direction,” he said.