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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.

Renovated Arts Academy Re-Opens In Lansing

WKAR Public Media | By Kevin Lavery

Published September 9, 2019 at 1:34 PM EDT

three people at ribbon cutting — Lansing Mayor Andy Schor (center, left) joins Lansing school board president Rachel Willis (behind student) and superintendent Yvonne Caamal Canul to cut the ribbon on the newly refurbished Dwight Rich School Of The Arts.

A newly renovated performing arts school in Lansing is back open for business.

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor joined Superintendent Yvonne Caamal Canul and Board President Rachel Willis on Monday to cut the ribbon at the refurbished Dwight Rich School of The Arts.

The $17 million upgrade includes a new auditorium, several spaces for arts instruction and a new early elementary wing.

Caamal Canul says modernization is a key part of the district’s strategic plan.

“I think the kids need to know that this community believes in them, supports them and wants to give them the best resources available,” she says.

The project was funded through a $120 million bond Lansing voters approved in 2016.

Everett and Sexton High schools are slated for a next round of renovations.