Educators send letters to parents, host meetings and even pick up students to combat absenteeism as lawmakers consider a stronger approach.
As Lansing mulls change, Michigan schools face uphill fight against absenteeism
Posted inBusiness Watch
Migrant farm work has boomed in Michigan. The feds just cut workers’ pay
The lower minimum wage for migrant farmhands has some farmers celebrating the cost savings and others wondering if they’ll still be able to attract the workers they need.
Posted inTalent & Education
Alpena schools get tough on absenteeism. Parents don’t make it easy
Educators are warning parents, scheduling meetings and even threatening charges. Many still miss school: ‘It’s like they’re not afraid of the consequences at this point,’ one says.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan absenteeism FAQ: Who’s to blame? What are penalties to schools, kids?
Michigan kids miss far more school than their peers. What to know about the crisis, from how many days are required and why the state’s recently retired superintendent is calling for Lansing to intervene.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Five reasons health insurance rates are rising so much in Michigan
From increasing hospital costs, insurance provider consolidation and inflationary pressures, the answer is as complex as the health care system itself.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan K-12 crisis: State slow to respond as kids miss school, scores fall
Michigan has some of the highest absenteeism rates in the nation — and worst reading scores. It’s not a coincidence, but unlike other states, Michigan has been slow to pursue reforms.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan food stamp payments to resume Saturday – but be cut in half
Michiganders who missed food stamp payments are expected to get reduced payments Saturday. Halved benefits from the federal government will be ‘a disappointment,’ a health official acknowledged.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan lawmakers: Eliminate economic development agency
MEDC spending soared during Whitmer administration, but critics say its results don’t benefit taxpayers or most businesses.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan program for troubled girls is closing. Officials fear more will follow
Vista Maria’s 50-year-old child treatment program is closing. Some see it as a dire warning for youth rehabilitation services in Michigan.
Posted inTalent & Education
Schools bonds have become a tough sell in Michigan. Not this time
Michigan voters said yes to 65% of school district bond requests. School districts pitched renovations to schools, updated playgrounds and technology and more athletic facilities in the November 2025 election.