Michigan Schools Meet Merit Requirements
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Weather.
Michigan Schools Achieve New Graduation Standards
Overview
In 2006, Michigan Public Schools elevated their graduation standards significantly. With Governor Jennifer M. Granholm's endorsement, the Michigan Merit Curriculum was enacted following input from educational and community leaders aiming for more rigorous and comprehensive requirements. These new standards, starting with the previous year's eighth graders, have received widespread support from educators.
Transition to the Michigan Merit Exam
By spring 2007, juniors in Michigan transitioned from the Michigan Educational Assessment Plan (MEAP) to the Michigan Merit Exam (MME). This new exam benefits students by including ACT scores necessary for college applications, saving families time and money.
Motivation for Change
According to a December 2006 Time Magazine article, the decline of the automobile industry played a significant role in driving these changes. The resulting job losses underscored the importance of boosting graduation rates, as highlighted by Detroit's 21.7% graduation rate, ranking 11th lowest in the nation per the EPE Research Center.
Implementation in 2007-2008
The 2007-2008 school year marked the full implementation of these changes. Michigan Schools now require every student, beginning in the seventh grade, to develop an Educational Development Plan (EDP). This plan helps students explore career options and map out a path to achieve their goals.
High Expectations Set by the Michigan Merit Curriculum
The Michigan Merit Curriculum introduces some of the nation's toughest graduation requirements. Students starting in eighth grade in 2006 must complete: 4 English credits, 4 math credits, 3 science credits, 3 social studies credits, 1 physical education credit, 1 credit in visual, performing, or applied arts, an online learning experience, and 2 credits in a foreign language.
Before these unified state standards, individual districts had varying requirements. The 16 core conditions are designed to better prepare students for the global economy and equip them with skills essential for college and career success.
Support and Challenges
High school students in Michigan can earn up to 24 credits, with electives allowing them to delve into specific interests such as music, science, or business. While the standards are widely seen as necessary, the challenge lies in ensuring all students can meet these expectations.
As the 2007-2008 academic year progresses, the focus is on helping students meet these ambitious goals amidst pressure from national and state mandates. The commitment of parents, teachers, and administrators is crucial in supporting Michigan's students through this transition.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Michigan Schools Meet Merit Requirements.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.