LANSING — Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed a plan to stabilize Benton Harbor’s School District and temporarily avoid closure while working to improve academic outcomes for students. In response, state Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo (D-Detroit) issued the following statement:
“I am glad to see the governor has listened to the concerns of the Benton Harbor community and productive conversations have led to a tentative plan to get the school district back on track. The educational crisis in Benton Harbor illustrates a broader problem faced by school districts across our state after years of chronic underfunding and state control, and that is why I hope caution is exercised when engaging those with national experience for turnaround efforts who could potentially undermine the autonomy of the local school board. I’m grateful for the recognition by all involved parties that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Today’s plan represents the first step in a comprehensive approach to turning things around for Benton Harbor, and I look forward to the continued partnership between the governor’s office, the Treasury and the families, students, community and school board members of Benton Harbor. We all want what is best for our students, and my colleagues and I remain committed to seeing we can achieve it.”