Detroit challenges
On Michigan’s standardized tests, Detroit charter students show some gains in comparison to previous years. But they’re still struggling to return to pre-pandemic numbers.
Every school in the Detroit district should soon have laundry facilities. Here’s why that could make a dent in chronic absenteeism.
Milliken v. Bradley reversed the nation’s course on addressing segregation in schools. Detroit classrooms continue to grapple with lasting effects.
“We recognize coming to college is an investment,” said Wayne State University President Kimberly Andrews Espy of efforts to help students afford college.
Just months before the fall college semester, students in Detroit who need financial aid are stuck in limbo.
Unintentional marijuana use is spiking among young children, while the district is dealing with hundreds of incidents involving weed and vape pens.
Detroit school leaders want action to keep pot edibles away from kids
Anyone in Michigan can enroll in Degree Forward, which has hubs in Detroit and Huron County.
The Bookmobile seeks to increase children’s access to physical books and promote the pleasures of reading.
Many Detroit school district students who come from low-income homes rely on school meals.
They talked about mental health, childhood trauma, good teaching, and the importance of self-love.
With initiatives targeted at specific schools, neighborhoods, or family needs, they’re chipping away at a problem that has long undermined efforts to improve student achievement.
The Rev. Larry Simmons wondered why children were roaming the streets of Brightmoor during school hours. That was the start of a campaign that continues today. Schools “need other partners to come to the table,” he says.
Detroit and suburban charter schools that enroll large numbers of city students have overall seen a bigger enrollment drop than Detroit district schools.
Detroit Public Schools Community District focused on one-time items that would help students get back in the classroom, and address infrastructure needs.
Results are beginning to climb back above pre-pandemic levels.
“This year’s school aid budget represents a giant step toward righting past wrongs,” said Alice Thompson from the NAACP Detroit branch.
The options vary based on where you live and which school the student attends.
Writers from youth group Local Circles who surveyed their peers share some sobering stories and messages of hope.
Investments are welcome news for a city working to recover from generations of disinvestment.