Featured photo: Michigan State Board of Education President Pamela Pugh
LANSING, MI – During a time of division and uncertainty, President Pamela Pugh and the Michigan State Board of Education members lauded significant achievements made by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) while emphasizing the need for civility, focus and a steadfast commitment to
children’s education.
At this month’s meeting, the Board reviewed updates on the State’s Strategic Education Plan, celebrating
progress across all eight goal areas. These achievements, shared during the annual “All Goals” update,
reflect ongoing dedication to improving educational outcomes and opportunities for Michigan’s students.
Highlights of Progress Across Key Goals:
Goal 4: Expanding Secondary Learning Opportunities
• Increased student participation in career and technical education, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), dual enrollment and early middle college programs.
• Notable increases in AP participation, exam-taking, and scores of 3, 4, or 5, reflecting enhanced college readiness.
Goal 3: Improving Health, Safety and Wellness of Learners
• Daily free breakfast and lunch provided to all Michigan public school students, a 26% increase in breakfast and 20% increase in lunch participation compared to the previous year.
• Addition of over 1,700 helping professionals in schools to support students’ mental and physical
well-being.
Goal 5: Increasing High School Graduation Rates
• Statewide graduation rates have risen in 10 of the last 12 years.
• In 2023, 13 of 17 reporting categories showed improvement compared to pre-pandemic levels, with all categories higher than in 2022.
President Pugh stressed the importance of continued focus, noting that these successes come at a critical
juncture as the state prepares for challenges under a new administration threatening to defund public
education.
A Call to Action and Accountability
“We celebrate these wins, but we must remain vigilant,” Pugh stated. “We will not allow political dog whistles to harm our students or create unsafe learning environments. Nor will we tolerate efforts to erase or distort history in our classrooms. Education is about protecting and empowering all children, regardless of geography, race, ancestry or gender/gender identity with the resources and knowledge they need to
succeed.”
Board member Mitch Robinson brought attention to and condemned false and inflammatory rhetoric directed at educators.
Robinson said: ““I am calling on board members to either name names, and identify the teachers who are claimed to have been forced to change children’s genders and place litter boxes in school bathrooms, or issue a public apology to the teachers of our state for these vile accusations that could very well influence the less stable among us to attempt unspeakable acts of violence.”
He emphasized the Board’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for baseless accusations that undermine the integrity of teachers and jeopardize safety in schools.
The Path Forward
The Board remains resolute in its mission to advocate for equitable funding, safe and modern school facilities, and the resources necessary for every Michigan child to thrive.
“During the 20-year period from 1995 to 2015, Michigan was DEAD LAST in the nation in total revenue growth, inflation adjusted. It’s hard to compete when resources for education didn’t keep up. Now, it’s time to build on strides made and set politics aside, placing focus on the future of our children,” Pugh added. “We must rebuild.” The Michigan State Board of Education invites all stakeholders to join in creating a brighter, more equitable future for students across the state.
