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Michigan public schools are making significant strides in student achievement, but state education leaders stress that more funding is needed to sustain progress.
Michigan Sees Record Graduation Rates, Career Training Growth
LANSING – Michigan’s public education system is reporting record-high graduation rates, growing enrollment in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, and increased success in Advanced Placement (AP) courses, according to State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice. However, despite these gains, education officials argue that funding shortfalls continue to hinder student progress, particularly in literacy.
During testimony before the House Subcommittee on School Aid/Michigan Department of Education, Dr. Rice detailed several key achievements, including:
A record-high graduation rate of 82.8% in 2024, the highest since 2008.
A 51.8% postsecondary credential attainment rate among Michigan adults aged 25 to 64.
A 19% increase in CTE program completions over the last three years, reaching a historic high of 52,625 students.
A 12.3% rise in AP course participation over the last two years.
The highest-ever enrollment in early middle college and dual enrollment programs, surpassing 16,000 and 35,000 students, respectively.
Improved standardized test scores, particularly in math, science, and social studies.
Despite these positive trends, Rice emphasized that Michigan’s education system remains significantly underfunded, citing findings from a 2018 School Finance Research Collaborative study that estimated the state is billions of dollars short of adequately financing its schools.
Literacy Struggles and Calls for Additional Investments
While test scores are up in many areas, Michigan students still lag in English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency. Scores improved in grades 5, 7, and 8 but declined in grades 3, 4, and 11. Pandemic-related learning loss remains a concern, especially for younger students who were in pre-K or kindergarten when COVID-19 disrupted traditional learning.
In response, the state has implemented new literacy and dyslexia laws, including expanded teacher training programs. Over 3,600 educators have completed LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training, with another 6,500 currently enrolled. However, Rice urged lawmakers to make this training mandatory for all K-5 teachers and to increase funding for literacy programs, smaller class sizes, and high-quality instructional materials.
Teacher Shortages Improve, But Challenges Remain
Michigan has gained national attention for its efforts to combat teacher shortages. Teacher preparation program enrollment has increased by 71% since 2016-17, reversing a previous 59% decline. Programs such as Future Proud Michigan Educator scholarships, student teacher stipends, and loan repayment programs have helped attract new teachers. However, shortages persist, particularly in rural and high-poverty districts.
While Michigan continues to have teacher shortages, investments in these and other programs have helped and will continue to help the state reduce these shortages.
The Path Forward: Sustaining Michigan’s Educational Progress
Dr. Rice credited recent legislative efforts for Michigan’s educational improvements but stressed that more work is needed. He called on lawmakers to prioritize funding increases, particularly for literacy programs and extended in-person instructional time.
Michigan’s education budget for 2023 and 2024 was the strongest in three decades, but historical underfunding from 1995-2015 continues to impact schools. Rice urged legislators to restore funding levels to meet national standards and ensure long-term gains.
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