Detroit City Wire

State Senators Darrin Camilleri and Ed McBroom, along with Skillman Foundation President Angelique Power, gathered at the Mackinac Policy Conference to discuss improvements in Michigan's education system. The event took place at Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel as part of the Detroit Regional Chamber's annual conference.

Both senators, who have backgrounds in education, shared their experiences and answered questions from Michigan students. Jia Patel, a senior from Grand Blanc High School, asked how lawmakers incorporate youth voices into policy-making. Camilleri emphasized his commitment to staying connected with students by visiting classrooms and engaging them in political internships.

McBroom highlighted his involvement with schools and noted the importance of student participation on school boards. He also addressed funding issues linked to the state's merit core curriculum introduced in the mid-2000s, which he believes limited career technical education opportunities.

The discussion also covered efforts to close funding gaps between schools through mechanisms like the Opportunity Index Formula. Camilleri explained that this approach considers various challenges faced by both urban and rural districts.

University of Michigan student Brandon Hofmeister raised concerns about preparing students for post-high school education. McBroom criticized the one-size-fits-all nature of current curricula and advocated for more localized decision-making regarding educational focus areas.

Power questioned what needs to change to improve Michigan's literacy rates, currently placing 41st nationally. McBroom suggested empowering local communities while maintaining clear directives from Lansing. Camilleri argued for setting broader goals rather than total local control due to the complexity of having numerous districts involved in decision-making.

The conversation also touched on federal disruptions affecting state budgets. While Camilleri expressed concern over potential impacts from Washington D.C., McBroom remained optimistic based on past experiences dealing with federal budget cuts.

Overall, both lawmakers stressed collaboration across political lines as essential for advancing educational reforms in Michigan.