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State Superintendent Expects “Tough Negotiations” On Help For Failing Schools

School Hallway
WKAR-MSU File photo
Negotiations continue over state and federal education policies.

Michigan’s education chief forecasts some contentious negotiations with federal officials on the state’s plans for identifying and helping struggling schools.

The federal Every Student Succeeds Act replaced No Child Left Behind. It includes rules on grading schools so parents can get a sense of how schools are performing, and for intervening in struggling schools.
    

State superintendent Brian Whiston (WIS’-ten) says there are differences between what federal officials want and the plan developed by Michigan.  

    “Well, we’ve had a couple phone calls that I would say have gone a little stressful, a little combative,” says Whiston.

    Whiston says the state is still waiting on a letter that formally outlines the concerns of the US Department of Education. But he says Michigan should determine its own education plans.
 

Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
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