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Educators tell appropriations subcommittee universal accountability labels alternative education as underperforming; propose parallel system
Summary
Presenters said Michigan's universal accountability metrics (Michigan School Index) disproportionately mark alternative and nontraditional programs as underperforming and urged lawmakers to create a separate, rigorous but appropriate parallel accountability framework for qualifying alternative education programs.
LANSING Mitch Cummings, director of off-site and alternative programs at Berrien Springs Public Schools, told the House Appropriations Subcommittee on School Aid that Michigan's universal accountability system can misclassify successful alternative education programs as underperforming, creating disincentives for districts to operate those programs.
"In our programs, we have 100 kids. We have 100 stories," Mitch Cummings said, summarizing the case for tailored accountability that recognizes short enrollments and transient student populations.
Cummings said the Michigan School Index, which aggregates metrics such as graduation rate, student growth and proficiency, often places…
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