State proposes takeover, charter schools to improve grades

(NOTE: This article originally appeared May 1, 2009 at CM-Life.com)

Failing and underperforming schools are running out of time, and state Rep. Tim Melton is watching the clock.

Melton, an Auburn Hills democrat, has introduced legislation aimed at targeting failing schools in Michigan. If the schools do not make the grade, they could face state takeover or increased competition from new charter schools.

“We need to demand more,” he said. “Who is not for more accountability in schools?”

The bill will target schools that are not making 35 percent Adequate Yearly Progress. AYP is the cornerstone of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. It measures year-to-year student achievement on the Michigan Education Assessment Program for elementary and middle schools, or the Michigan Merit Examination for high school, according to the Michigan Department of Education.

Melton’s legislation would include bringing in review teams to look at the schools. He is not ruling out any type of reforms, including extending school days and the school year.