North Michigan News

State Senator John Damoose from Harbor Springs has expressed strong opposition to a series of bills approved by the Senate Committee on Education, which he believes could severely impact charter schools in Michigan. Following the committee's decision, Damoose released a statement criticizing the proposed legislation.

Damoose remarked, “I simply cannot believe what occurred in today’s Education Committee. We literally watched the committee chair attack the entire premise of for-profit corporations, the bedrock of the American economy and the source of innovation that made us a great nation." He emphasized his concern that if these bills become law, many charter schools might have to close, eliminating successful educational options for families.

Highlighting past issues within Detroit's public school system, Damoose noted that more than half of Detroit's public school students currently attend charter schools. He stated these institutions have been pivotal in improving education outcomes in Detroit since 1999 when mismanagement led to state intervention.

The proposed bills would impose stricter regulations on charter schools compared to traditional public schools. One specific proposal prohibits charter operators from owning their properties while ignoring their lack of ability to raise funds through millages.

Damoose voiced concerns about parental choice being undermined and criticized what he perceives as an unfair narrative against charter schools. "Many parents in our state have made their voices clear: They want these options to be available," he said.

He also expressed dissatisfaction with how the committee hearing was conducted, describing it as contentious and lacking transparency. "A contentious committee hearing where members’ questions were scoffed at and disregarded is not an acceptable way to govern," he asserted.

Damoose confirmed his intention to vote against these bills when they are presented before the full Senate.