Today the Michigan House and Senate are debating HB 5581 and SB 0945, a bill introduced by Rep. Genetski to transfer the authority for assessments from the Michigan Department of Education to treasury under Governor Snyder.
The reason?
The MDE wants Smarter Balanced and many state lawmakers do not. The “solution” provided in HB 5581 and SB 0945 is to transfer the decision to Gov. Snyder. But no one can tell us what Gov. Snyder will do or what test he supports. How do we know he doesn’t support SBAC too? We don’t. Yesterday, I encouraged people to call and find out. When I contacted the Governor’s office his aides pulled a “Pelosi” and said I had to wait for the bill to pass before he’ll tell us what assessment he supports. Others called and were put off or put on hold. That’s not leadership!
I encourage lawmakers to withdraw this bill until we have that question answered. Passing laws without knowing where they lead is not my idea of good legislation. Gov. Snyder and lawmakers in the GOP need some cover for their support of Common Core and HCR 011. And we’re supposed to trust them now?
I was told by more than one office yesterday that we need this in treasury (or anywhere but MDE) because they are more responsive and willing to to what they are told. But what are they gong to be told to do? No one seems to know or is willing to say.
It’s wait until the bill passes and then we’ll know.
That’s just not good enough. Either tell us what the to Governor will do so we can have an honest discussion or withdraw the bill. Or here’s another idea, introduce a bill where all funding to MDE will be withheld until they comply with the legislative directive on assessments.
Contact Rep. Genetski and tell him to withdraw HB 5581 the bill. Phone: (517) 373-0836
Contact Gov. Snyder and ask him what assessment he supports. Phone: (517) 373-3400