ACADEMICS / PUBLIC EDUCATION

The State of Michigan has a three-echelon system of schools made up of the State Department of Education, Intermediate School Districts and local school districts. A state superintendent is appointed by the State Board of Education and writes and enforces the rules and regulations by which local school districts must operate. The Intermediate School Districts provide consultative and supportive services to all schools in their districts, playing an integral part of the state system by performing at a regional level on behalf of their constituency and the State Department of Education. Local school districts elect their Board of Education and are primarily funded by local property taxes. Each district determines its own methods of achieving the regulations set down by the state superintendent.

Registration
Students registering in Michigan schools for the first time must also bring proof of residency (utility bill, mortgage or lease agreement), official birth certificate, social security number, and legal proof of custody for guardians who are not natural parents. Transcripts or report cards from the school previously attended will also be helpful.

Michigan requires children to be at least six years of age by December 1 of the enrollment year in order to enter the school system. State law also requires proof of immunizations signed by a licensed physician that includes the proper dosage and intervals for measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and DTP (DT, TD). A signed exemption is the only recourse. All immunizations must be up to date within two days of entering school, according to the State Health Department. County-level health departments offer free clinics. All students entering kindergarten must have a vision screening or submit a waiver because of religious reasons.

For more information on public education in Michigan or answers to specific questions, contact:

Michigan State Department of Education
General Information
517-373-3324
Vision Screening
517-373-1122
Immunizations
517-373-1122
https://www.michigan.gov/mde

Michigan Education on the Web
https://www.michigan.gov/mde
Comprehensive guide to Internet links for school districts, educational resources, administrative offices, community colleges, and private/public colleges and universities.

Charter Schools & Public School Academies
Defined as privately funded public schools, charter schools are founded and organized by a group of teachers, community members, parents, or an individual. Some of the charter schools in Michigan are also defined as Public School Academies. For information, contact:

Michigan State Department of Education
Education Options, Charter & Choices
Charter Schools
517-241-4715
https://www.michigan.gov/mde

Assessment & Testing

The State Department of Education developed a testing program known as the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) to establish an effective curriculum and assess strength and weaknesses. Administered to elementary and secondary students, the tests cover the key areas of mathematics, reading, science, writing, and social studies. The tests for elementary and middle school students through the 8th grade are staggered so that all tests are not taken in one year.

Mathematics testing is designed to measure essential skills, although the MEAP HST includes real-world applications and problems. Reading tests measure performance based on understanding what has been read, which may include a written response. Writing assessment considers ideas and content, organization, style, and conventions. Science testing focuses on five dimensions of scientific literacy: using life science, using physical science, using earth science, constructing scientific knowledge, reflecting on scientific knowledge.

For complete information on MEAPS testing or evaluation and reports, contact the State Department of Education, your Intermediate School District or your local school district. The following website offers MEAPS results and other detailed information on school districts throughout the state:

Center for Educational Performance & Information
517-335-0505
https://www.michigan.gov/cepi