More ‘ed reform’ on House panel radar

School funding was on today’s agenda of a state House education reform work group, a special, bipartisan panel that plans to meet weekly through the summer to consider substantial changes for public education.
Reps. Bill Rogers, R-Brighton, and Paul Scott, R-Grand Blanc, are co-chairs of the 13-member group.

Other members include: Reps. Kevin Cotter, R-Mount Pleasant; Bob Genetski, R-Saugatuck; Ken Goike, R-Ray; Tom Hooker, R-Byron Center; Margaret O’Brien, R-Portage; Earl Poleski, R-Jackson; Deb Shaughnessy, R-Charlotte; Doug Geiss, D-Taylor; Rudy Hobbs, D-Lathrup Village; Tim Melton, D-Pontiac; and Sean McCann, D-Kalamazoo.

House Speaker Jase Bolger, R-Marshall, announced creation of the group in late May. A House Republican press release said the group would identify “education reforms” and find “more efficient and responsible ways for Michigan schools to effectively use tax dollars.” In a special address in April, Gov. Rick Snyder endorsed massive changes for public schools. MEA has also presented a comprehensive education reform agenda to Snyder and the Legislature, too.

We expect group members to propose legislation this fall based on ideas and concepts discussed this summer; Gov. Rick Snyder has said he wants to consider substantial changes when the Legislature resumes in September.

The House work group will meet at 11 a.m. every Wednesday. The meetings are open to the public, though seating is limited. If you have ideas or suggestions for the group, contact Rogers’ office at 517-373-1784.