Public education in Michigan will have new leadership this summer. Last week, the state board of education voted 7 to 1 to hire Dearborn schools chief Brian Whiston as the next State Superintendent. He will replace Mike Flanagan, who will retire in June after 10 years at the helm of the Michigan Department of Education. Whiston’s appointment is pending formal approval from the state board, which is expected soon.He will inherit a public education system that’s wrestling with issues ranging from charter school authorization to standardized testing.
Current State speaks with Brian Whiston about his appointment and his vision for the future.