What does the 2020 election mean for the future of Michigan schools?
Chalkbeat Detroit, the Education Trust-Midwest, and the Detroit Free Press are teaming up to host a conversation about the significance of the 2020 election at a time when the restrictions to curb the spread of coronavirus will increase inequities in schools across the state.
“As our policymakers look toward the new year amid an unprecedented crisis that has exacerbated long-standing inequities, it’s critical that they maintain a focus on working toward equity and fairness in education,” said Amber Arellano, executive director for the Education Trust-Midwest, a Royal Oak-based education research and advocacy organization.
“Already, the wide opportunity gaps between Michigan’s students are expected to worsen, impacting urban and rural students. Having a diverse set of voices from across the aisle discussing the challenges and working toward solutions is more important than ever,” Arellano said.
Chalkbeat Detroit’s Koby Levin and the Detroit Free Press’ Nancy Kaffer will moderate the conversation. Panelists are:
- Rep. Brad Paquette, a Republican from Niles who serves as the vice chair of the House Education Committee.
- Rep. Darrin Camilleri, a Democrat from Brownstown Township who serves as the minority vice chair of the House Education Committee.
- Ama Russell, a senior at Cass Technical High School and a Detroit youth activist.
- Cara Lougheed, an educator in Rochester Hills and the 2019 Michigan Teacher of the Year.
- Michael Hutson, a parent and member of the Michigan League for Public Policy.
Before the event, Ife Martin, a high school junior who’s a spoken word artist with Inside Out Literary Arts, will perform.
Expect to hear a discussion about how schools are coping with pandemic learning, equitable education funding, missing students, accountability during COVID-19, and the long-term effects of the pandemic.
The conversation takes place at 4 p.m. Dec. 7. Register for it here.
