FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 7, 2023

CONTACT:
Adam Bitely
(202) 689-9266
abitely@martinwaymire.com

Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity praises House passage of third grade retention repeal

LANSING, Mich. – Peter Spadafore, executive director of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity (The Alliance), issued the following statement today praising the Michigan House of Representatives for passing Sen. Dayna Polehanki’s legislation, Senate Bill 12, which would repeal Michigan’s third grade retention law:

“We’re thankful for the quick action the legislature has taken on this critical issue. The data has shown that a one-size-fits-all approach to retention is not sound education policy. The decision to retain a student should be made by parents, teachers, and local education professionals, not by heavy-handedH state laws that disregard the needs of the student.

“It’s a great day for Michigan students, parents, and teachers as the harmful red-tape of Michigan’s failed third grade retention law is finally pulled back. Michigan’s educators can now focus on ensuring our students have the best environment to excel in without burdensome regulations holding back student achievement.”

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The Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, formerly the Middle Cities Education Association, works to build an equitable foundation for education, where every student in Michigan, regardless of circumstance, is equipped to succeed after graduation. Learn more at mialliance.com.