© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

School Administrators Almost On Board With New Skilled Trades Legislation

Reginald Hardwick
/
WKAR-MSU

Some state lawmakers want more skilled trade and technical education in Michigan schools. But schools aren’t on board yet. 

School administrators are overall positive about bringing more skilled trades education into their classrooms. They like the variety it gives students.

Peter Spadafore is with the Michigan Association of School Administrators.

“This, I see, as an opportunity to have a thoughtful policy discussion and actually craft some legislation that could really change some lives.” He says.

But Spadafore is concerned about letting professionals teach students without a teaching certificate – which one bill would allow. he says the professionals wouldn’t necessarily need to get a typical teaching certificate – which can take years. But they want to make sure the professionals know how to be educators.

Before becoming the newest Capitol reporter for Michigan Public Radio Network, Cheyna Roth was an attorney. She spent her days fighting it out in court as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Ionia County.
Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.