Livingston Today

In a recent report issued by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Growing Michigan Together Council, a recommendation to eliminate the partisan State Board of Education has caught the attention of many. Rep. Ann Bollin, who has long advocated for this change, believes that removing the Board and making the head of the Department of Education a direct appointment of the governor would lead to a more effective and non-political education system.

"The State Board of Education being elected in partisan elections between political parties has muddled its core purpose," says Bollin. "Education should not be a political playing field; it should be a platform for nurturing the minds and futures of our youth."

Bollin introduced House Joint Resolution D earlier this year, which aims to eliminate the State Board of Education and replace it with a direct appointment by the governor, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. The resolution emphasizes the need for an education system that is insulated from radical political ideologies and prioritizes parental input and engagement.

The State Board of Education, as it currently stands, has faced criticism for its lack of public input and meaningful engagement. Bollin argues that its partisan members operate more like politicians, impeding progress and silencing the voices of students, parents, and educators.

Michigan's educational system has been struggling, consistently ranking poorly compared to other states despite significant investments. Bollin believes that this calls for decisive action and a break from the status quo. "HJR D presents an opportunity to break free from the status quo," she says. "It aligns with the bipartisan intent of the population commission, emphasizing that education should transcend political divides for the betterment of our state."

Adopting House Joint Resolution D would be the first step towards a more effective education system in Michigan. Currently awaiting consideration by the House Government Operations Committee, the proposal would need to be approved by a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to reach Michigan voters during the next statewide general election.

"The recent report from the Growing Michigan Together Council underscores the necessity for a fundamental shift in how we approach education," says Bollin. "We owe it to our children and the future of Michigan to dismantle the barriers obstructing progress."

Eliminating the State Board of Education and transforming the education system in Michigan is a crucial step towards improving educational outcomes and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of students. With the support of the Legislature and the collective will of the citizens, Michigan has the opportunity to shape a better future for its children.

To learn more, click on this link: https://gophouse.org/posts/column-eliminating-state-board-of-education-key-to-improving-education-outcomes-in-michigan