A recent report analyzing nationwide school closures has revealed that in Michigan, one in three charter schools fails. Michigan has the highest number of charter schools run by for-profit companies in the nation, with over 80% operated by charter management groups. The report found that backers of these schools accept closures as a natural consequence of market forces.
Mitchell Robinson, a member of the Michigan State Board of Education, criticized the way charter schools are being treated, comparing them to transient businesses like dry cleaners or dollar stores. Robinson expressed concern that profit is being prioritized over the best interests of students, families, and teachers in the state.
The report, from the National Center for Charter School Accountability, highlighted that nearly half of charter schools nationwide closing cited low enrollment as the reason, while 20% of closures were due to fraud and mismanagement of funds. Senator Dayna Polehanki, D-Livonia, introduced legislation this summer to promote transparency in charter schools, but it has not yet passed.
Robinson emphasized the importance of transparency in helping families make informed decisions about their children’s education. He argued that teachers do not see their students as money-making tools, but as individuals with hopes and dreams that they are working to nurture.
Michigan currently spends over $1 billion annually on charter schools, all of which are state-funded. With more than 360 charter schools enrolling about 11% of the state’s K-12 students, the debate over the accountability and sustainability of charter schools in Michigan continues.
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