LANSING, Mich. – Peter Spadafore, executive director of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity (The Alliance), issued the following statement on the upcoming retirement of State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice:

“On behalf of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, I want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Michael F. Rice on the announcement of his well-deserved retirement. Dr. Rice has been a tireless champion for Michigan’s public school students throughout his distinguished career. His leadership as State Superintendent—marked by historic improvements in graduation rates, expanded access to rigorous coursework, and increased investment in student mental health and literacy—leaves a lasting legacy in our state.

“Dr. Rice’s vision and steadfast commitment to equity and opportunity for all have shaped education policy in ways that will benefit Michigan students for years to come. As a former president of our organization, he led with the same passion and resolve that defined his tenure at the Michigan Department of Education, as a local superintendent, and as a life-long educator. We are grateful for his service and wish him the very best in this next chapter.”

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