February 15, 2008 – I spent some time in the Governor’s Office visiting with Chuck Wilbur, Education Policy Advisor for Governor Granholm. Joining me was Don Wotruba, MASB Government Affairs Director. Our topic was the Governor’s proposed 21st Century Schools proposal, i.e., Small High Schools. We advised Chuck that many were seeing this as a “bricks and mortar” proposal. And, a surprising number of perceived to be high performance high schools met the criteria to be eligible for grants under the original wording. He was surprised and said this was not the intent. He reinstated this proposal was to open a door for those schools who are not meeting AYP expectations in academics and have high numbers of student not finishing school to re-group by stepping outside union contracts, to focus instruction, and create a new climate. Expect a clarification memo from the Governor in a few weeks. MASSP is being perceived as a partner in this proposal.
Later in the same day I visited with the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee along with the Minority Chair and their respect staff on the topic of changes to the MME. I’ve outlined in other publications our goals in this area. It was agreed everything we wanted could be done in the appropriations bill now before the committee. They agreed to support all of our proposals. The Minority Chair agreed there is not need for his 12-bill package to revamp the MME. The door was opened for MASSP to come to the dance. Other meetings have taken place with key people involved in this policy change in MME. I can tell you we’re on the floor and the dance has begun.
Today, I am meeting with the chief of staff of the Senate Education Committee regarding the Principal Bill of Rights (written about earlier) and amending the Personal Curriculum to allow an “off-ramp” for students who have fallen behind in their credits. So far, we’ve been told the Chair will sponsor these bills, which is a very important first step. Again, the door to the dance has not yet been opened on these policy proposals, but our association has been invited to come in and audition.
On Tuesday, the House Education Committee discussed linking truancy with receiving a driver’s license. There is another story with details about this on this site. We’re trying to pile this on the compulsory education change bill so to make the point you just can’t change the age for 16 to 18 and say you’re done. So far we’re having success. Our “off ramp” bill will be part of this entire mix if we have our way. As the compulsory change bill continues there may be many more pieces added on. There will then be a good chance it dies from the weight. This policy shift is on the legislative dance floor. We are busy whispering in the ears of those on the floor.
Have a good week.