Republicans call for more flexibility in grad. standards

If you have a child who prefers sports — or woodworking, for that matter — to advanced mathematics, relief may be on the way.

A coalition of state lawmakers, including some Oakland County Republicans, have proposed revamping Michigan’s high school graduation requirements to, among other things, decrease the number of math courses a student has to take from four to two — geometry and algebra II.

However, under the proposed changes, the student would be required to complete seven additional credits, which could be fulfilled by successfully completing at least two math credits, at least two social science credits, at least one science credit, or no more than two foreign language credits or one performing or visual arts credit.

Under Senate Bill (SB) 997, those seven credits could also be filled either through the current educational road map or through career and technical courses and training, including internships or apprenticeships, according to the bill’s sponsors.

“This is about expanding choices for Michigan students and parents by allowing more flexibility in the curriculum required to graduate high school,” said state Sen. John Proos (R-St. Joseph) in a press release. “I co-sponsored this reform to give southwest Michigan students the ability to choose the educational path that best fits their skills and desires. I support a rigorous education that prepares our children for success in college and beyond, but that guideline must acknowledge that college is not for everyone.”

In addition, SB 997 would require a half-credit — instead of the current one credit — in health education and a half-credit in physical education, which could be fulfilled by participating in a school sport.

State Sen. Mike Kowall (R-Commerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) declined comment on the legislation, which is awaiting consideration by the Senate Education Committee.

Companion legislation, House Bill 5451, has also been introduced in the lower chamber. That measure has been referred to the House Education Committee and features state Rep. Bill Rogers (R-Milford) as a co-sponsor.