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Listen Tuesdays at 6:45 and 8:45 a.m. on 90.5 WKAR-FMAccording to the Kids Count report of April 2018, 56% of third graders in Michigan are not proficient in English Language Arts. At the same time, some new public school teachers in Michigan are leaving the classroom because they do not earn enough money for a decent living. Virtual and charter schools are on the rise in Michigan. And in some communities there are breakthroughs in raising better readers.Covering education in Michigan is complex, but WKAR is committed to reporting on the problems, searching for solutions, and holding leaders accountable.Listen for Making The Grade in Michigan with WKAR education reporter Kevin Lavery every Tuesday at 6:45 and 8:45 a.m. on 90.5 WKAR-FM's Morning Edition.

Okemos Voters Approve School Bond Issue; It's a No-Go in Charlotte

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A school bond issue will go forth in the Okemos Public Schools, but a similar effort was rejected in Charlotte.
newamericamedia.org

Voters in Okemos approved a nearly $25 million school bond issue on Tuesday, but a similar attempt failed in Charlotte. 

 

The bond issue in Okemos will fund several re-modeling projects, including a sizeable addition to Bennett Woods Elementary. It would also pay for security and technology upgrades, expanding its bus fleet and improving athletic facilities. 

Economists say despite long-term liabilities totaling around $100 million, Okemos enjoys a strong tax base and growing enrollment.

The Charlotte Public Schools lost its bid for a nearly $28 million bond issue for similar expenses.  The district has seen declining enrollment in recent years.

Lansing voters approved a 10-year sinking fund proposal that will raise more than $7 million for  security upgrades and building construction.  Voters in Mason approved an operating millage renewal…but a 10-year millage increase was defeated in Dansville.

 

 

 

 

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Kevin Lavery served as a general assignment reporter and occasional local host for Morning Edition and All Things Considered before retiring in 2023.