LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – On May 14, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer tweeted about the state of education in Michigan, saying:

“In some states, educators are being undermined, micromanaged, and even criminalized just for doing their jobs. That’s not how you improve education. In Michigan, we’re charting a different path and let teachers do what they do best: teach.”

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Recent data, however, suggests a different narrative regarding educational outcomes in Michigan. Despite Whitmer’s assertion that granting teachers educational liberty has improved Michigan’s school system, fourth-grade reading proficiency levels say otherwise. According to the National Assessment of Educational Statistics:

  • 2019: Michigan ranked 32nd in the nation for fourth-grade reading proficiency.
  • Current: The state’s ranking has dropped to 43rd.

Additionally, Michigan’s average score for fourth-grade reading decreased from 218 in 2019 to 212 in 2022, a notable drop that aligns with national declines and places Michigan below the national average of 216. 

While Whitmer’s tweet emphasizes the importance of supporting educators, the data suggests that this approach is not sufficient to address the underlying issues affecting student performance.

An article from National Review, which discusses the factors impacting students, points to the role of teachers’ unions in influencing public education. The article argues that unions often take advantage of voter apathy to maintain control over school boards, which can lead to policies that prioritize staff benefits over student performance.

The article continues: “They (families) deserve laws that increase the number of parents voting while decreasing the outsized influence of teachers’ unions. That means aligning school-board elections with general elections and requiring school-board candidates to disclose their party.”

Resource allocation is another factor. Ensuring that financial, material, and human resources are distributed effectively across schools and districts is essential. This includes funding, staffing, educational materials, and infrastructure, all of which are integral for creating a conducive learning environment.

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Curriculum standards are equally important. Defining what students are expected to learn at each grade level and ensuring these standards are rigorous, up-to-date, and effectively implemented can help improve student performance and educational outcomes.

To truly improve education in Michigan, the data suggests that a comprehensive approach is necessary—one that includes addressing elements such as curriculum standards, resource allocation, and the influence of teachers’ unions on policy decisions.

If Michigan wants to turn the page in education, it will require more than just letting teachers “teach.”