October 5, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today said the results of a survey of Michigan school districts conducted by the Michigan Department of Education are strong evidence of the need for a state mandated curriculum if Michigan students are to compete for jobs in the 21st century.   The survey results were presented to the State Board of Education at a special meeting focused on the issue of high school curriculum.

 “To compete in an economy that thrives on technology and knowledge, our students need to develop high-level math, science and communication skills,” Granholm said.  “Only a third of our school districts even require students to take algebra – that is simply unacceptable.”

The survey responses from districts across Michigan highlight the lack of consensus among schools on required courses.  While many of the districts require some math, science and English courses, there is little consistency among districts as to the number and type of courses.  In addition, the survey reveals that few school districts in Michigan require much training in the technology that dominates the modern workplace.

The State Board of Education today held a special meeting to discuss the results of the survey and the Governor’s call for a mandated curriculum.

State Board of Education President Kathleen Straus said the survey was eye-opening.  “I thought we were doing a lot better than this, and it’s going to startle a lot of other people when this information gets out to the public,” she said.

The Governor called for the adoption of a state mandated curriculum for all high school students in her weekly radio address on September 16, arguing that Michigan’s economy will suffer if the state does not have a highly educated workforce.  The Cherry Commission on Higher Education and Economic growth, appointed by the Governor last year, called establishing higher academic standards in Michigan high schools a key step in getting more young people to attend college and complete degrees.  Granholm has said doubling the number of college graduates in Michigan is critical to economic growth.  

“We can’t be sending out the signal that Michigan requires only civics,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. “This survey reaffirms we need to address this issue, while still respecting local control."

Flanagan is expected to make recommendations to the State Board of Education on November 15 on what a mandatory curriculum should be, with board action to follow in December.
 
The survey results are attached.