Here’s a concise summary of the article “7 questions for Michigan’s new school superintendent” by Michael J. Reitz:
Glenn M. Maleyko, the current Dearborn Public Schools superintendent, has been appointed as Michigan’s new superintendent of public instruction at a critical time for the state’s education system. In this opinion piece, Reitz poses seven key questions that will test Maleyko’s leadership:
How will he address Michigan’s declining student performance?
Reading and math scores have dropped significantly, especially among early-grade students.Why is achievement falling despite increased education spending?
Per-pupil funding is up 35% over a decade, yet student enrollment is down and outcomes are worsening.How will teacher effectiveness be measured?
Michigan has abandoned rigorous evaluation systems, which may harm teaching quality. (Moving from 4 to 3 prongs and reducing the student growth component.)Will he modernize education for today’s economy?
The state lacks innovation and restricts competitive education models that other states are adopting.Should “free” universal school meals continue?
Critics argue it subsidizes wealthier families and may not be the best use of limited funds.What should schools do about cellphones in class?
Debate continues over statewide vs. local control of cellphone restrictions.Will Michigan join the new federal school choice program?
A new tax credit could expand private education access, but the state must opt in.
While Maleyko won’t directly decide many of these issues, his influence as the state's top education leader will shape public debate and policy direction. The article ends by questioning whether he’ll uphold the status quo or push for higher standards and accountability in Michigan’s schools.
To read the entire article, go to: https://www.mackinac.org/blog/2025/7-questions-for-michigans-new-school-superintendent