With the state House perhaps up for grabs, uncertainty for tea party candidates and what could be a close race for governor, Lansing’s approach to road funding, education and other key issues is unsettled.
Ron French
Ron reports on a variety of subjects across the state. Ron came to Bridge in 2011 from The Detroit News, where he was a project reporter. Born and raised in Indiana, Ron graduated from Purdue University. He reported for newspapers across Indiana before moving to Michigan in 1995. Ron lives in Okemos, and like the true Michigander he’s become, he now has a family cabin Up North. You can reach him at rfrench@bridgemi.com or 517-214-3636.
Posted inMichigan Government
The governor’s race: where they stand (in 3 minutes or less)
Incumbent Rick Snyder and challenger Mark Schauer differ on a lot of issues. Here’s a primer before you step into the voting booth.
Posted inTalent & Education
State schools chief: Michigan is 10 years behind leading states
Superintendent Mike Flanagan tells Bridge he is baffled by Michigan’s poor scores on national tests, has been slow to act on key reforms, and may have stayed in his job too long.
Posted inTalent & Education
Smartest kids: What Michigan schools can learn from leading states
Students from Minnesota to Florida are learning more. Is Michigan ready to do something about it?
Posted inTalent & Education
Smartest kids: In Florida, early reading and frequent testing bring results, and pushback
Emphasis on literacy and testing to monitor progress are credited with a rise in student learning in Florida, particularly for low-income and minority students. But some ask, how much is too much?
Posted inTalent & Education
Smartest kids: Teaching starts early, with special focus on the poor, in Minnesota
Minnesota traces its elite status to tough academic standards, the nation’s most extensive early childhood education program and higher investment in low-income schools.
Posted inQuality of Life
DNR yields to public and will not allow drilling under prized land at Hartwick Pines
A Bridge article revealing possible oil leasing under the virgin pines produced a backlash from environmental groups, and from the family that donated the land. The DNR says it may still allow drilling in other parts of the park.
Posted inTalent & Education
Smartest kids: In Tennessee, an epic turnaround
A perennial bottom dweller in academic rankings, Tennessee has sprinted to respectability by demanding more of teachers and students and giving them the tools to succeed.
Posted inQuality of Life
Oil lease proposed under 400-year-old virgin pines
The state may allow an oil lease under the largest stand of virgin white pine in the Lower Peninsula. Experts say drilling wouldn't harm trees. But critics fear a booming oil rig at Hartwick Pines State Park.
Posted inQuality of Life
How to comment on possible oil drilling under Hartwick Pines State Park
Revenue and jobs? Or undisturbed quiet? Make your voice heard on drilling proposals. Also, see if you live near a proposed drilling site.