There's a push to eliminate the Michigan education board: Here's why

[TexasTowelie]

A resolution in the Michigan Legislature pushes for the elimination of the State Board of Education, but voters would have the final say over the fate of the elected body.

The proposal was met with mixed reaction this morning during a meeting of the House Education Reform Committee. And the co-presidents of the board say the effort is not only a long shot but misguided.

Rep. Tim Kelly, R-Saginaw Township, is the resolution's primary sponsor. He said "Michigan has fallen precipitously" in academic rankings over the last decade, and the board has "watched fecklessly as we have fallen farther and farther behind."

He described it as "educational malpractice."

Members of the eight-member board are elected to eight-year terms on a partisan basis. A key function of the board is appointing a state superintendent, who oversees the Michigan Department of Education. But the board also sets education policy in the state and provides guidance to the Legislature on educational matters.

Read more: http://www.freep.com/story/news/education/2017/10/12/michigan-state-education-board/756998001/

[elleng]

1. 'eight-year terms on a partisan basis'

"Michigan has fallen precipitously" in academic rankings over the last decade, and the board has "watched fecklessly as we have fallen farther and farther behind."

Gee, wonder why!

[TexasTowelie]

2. An obvious case of disconnect forms when officials are elected

for such a long term in office. A four to five year term in office would be more appropriate for board members.