Should private behavioral technicians be allowed in the public school setting to help students with disabilities? Parents and advocates say yes.
Isabel Lohman
Isabel Lohman reports on early childhood, K-12 and higher education for Bridge Michigan, tracking how policies made in Lansing affect students and educators. She has closely reported on literacy, absenteeism and special education. Isabel was a finalist for the Society of Professional Journalists Detroit's 2026 Young Journalist of the Year award. Before joining Bridge, she covered children's issues for the Knoxville News Sentinel in Tennessee, reporting on COVID-19 in schools and communities coping with gun violence.
Isabel grew up outside of Chicago and has a bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri. She moved to Ann Arbor in 2022.
Whitmer says solving literacy crisis in Michigan remains her ‘No. 1 priority’
Leaders from schools, businesses and government attended an event Monday where speakers called for action.
New Michigan superintendent aims to raise test scores, collaborate with Whitmer
In a wide-ranging interview with Bridge, new State Superintendent Glenn Maleyko says the state is building momentum on literacy and should do more on funding.
Michigan schools should disclose vaccination rates to parents, lawmakers say
The 11-bill package was introduced to strengthen the state’s authority amid shifting federal policies on childhood immunization.
Michigan needs to attract, retain more teachers of color, new report says
As Michigan schools continue trying to find highly qualified teachers and retain them, a new report highlights the need to ensure students experience being taught by teachers of color.
Nighttime child care center in Jackson serves kids whose parents work late
Finding affordable child care can be tough for parents. A child care center in Jackson is providing a ‘second family’ for kids when parents work late at night.
Next Michigan superintendent vows to take ‘students first’ mission statewide
Fresh off a meeting with the governor, incoming state superintendent Glenn Maleyko says he’s ready to work with anyone.
Enrollment in Michigan’s free pre-K program for 4-year-olds reaches new high
State officials are touting the free pre-K program for 4-year-olds. Across the state, about 51,000 students are enrolled.
Michigan adopts updated sex education standards after contentious meeting
Michigan Democrats approved an update to the state’s health standards during a contentious State Board of Education meeting. Many public commenters took issue with the state’s recommendation to address gender identity in instruction.
Michigan has $321M for school safety. The catch: Districts must waive rights
Michigan public and private schools can opt in to receive school safety and mental health funding. But school groups say they have issues with the funding rules.