Thousands of Michigan parents are on waiting lists to get their children into after-school care programs. They’re forced to go without in spite of millions of dollars in grant funding offered by the state.
Talent & Education
To prosper, Michigan must be a more educated place. Bridge will explore the challenges in education and identify policies and initiatives that address them.
Posted inTalent & Education
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.
Posted inTalent & Education
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.
Posted inTalent & Education
Peanut allergies fall, but Michigan schools are sticking with restrictions
Early research led parents and schools to avoid exposing children to peanuts, but new studies show early introduction sharply reduces allergy risk. While allergy rates are falling, many Michigan schools still use targeted nut restrictions to protect vulnerable students.
Posted inTalent & Education
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.
Posted inTalent & Education
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.
Posted inTalent & Education
How can Michigan improve schools? Mississippi’s ex-superintendent has ideas
Mississippi transformed from last to near-top in reading after unified political support, early-grade intervention and strict science-of-reading reforms. Former state superintendent Carey Wright, now in Maryland, says success required consistency, teamwork, and keeping politics out — lessons Michigan will face as education becomes a 2026 campaign issue.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan autism group rallies to save key program after state slashes $2M
A program that helps individuals and families navigating the complex systems supporting those with autism is struggling after a state budget cut. But leaders say it will go on.
Posted inTalent & Education
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.
Posted inTalent & Education
Unlike Michigan, Indiana got tough on missing school. It’s already working
Cross the border into Indiana, and chronic absenteeism rates are often half of what they are in Michigan. That’s because Indiana noticed a problem and passed laws demanding accountability.