Detroit School Leader Could Exit Early If Legislation Stalls
A retired judge who handled Detroit's bankruptcy could leave his new post running the city's deeply troubled school system this spring if legislation to overhaul the district isn't passed.
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A retired judge who handled Detroit's bankruptcy could leave his new post running the city's deeply troubled school system this spring if legislation to overhaul the district isn't passed.
The union has said it was not part of the sick-outs, but has been critical of low pay in the district and poor working conditions.
Teacher sick-outs closed dozens of schools earlier this year. In addition to the physical problems in the buildings, the educators have complained about poor pay and overcrowded classrooms.
"In a bizarre kind of way, it's conceivable this might work to his advantage."
The school district said the funds are being transferred from existing spending plans of other district departments.
The letter from DPS Emergency Manager Darnell Earley stated that if teachers allowed inspectors into the building, police would be called and teachers could be arrested according to Bailey.
A plan to restructure Detroit's ailing school district is set for review in a legislative committee.
The DFT is taking legal action in an effort to clean-up what they say are dirty and dangerous conditions in schools.
Earley is leaving his position by the end of the month, Gov. Snyder's office confirmed.
Following recent teacher sick-outs, the City of Detroit has promised to inspect every school within the city for safety and code violations.
Rolling teacher sick-outs have — so far in January — forced the district to close dozens of schools on some days.
Students marched around the block, chanting: "Fix DPS! We deserve the best!"
A judge has dismissed the case against ousted activist Detroit teacher Steve Conn and the Strike To Win Group.
Teachers are upset over pay, class sizes, building conditions and Gov. Rick Snyder's plan to overhaul the district.
Majority Republicans in Michigan's Legislature say the bills will make it easier to deem such work stoppages illegal strikes.
"The struggle will continue until we have won justice for the people of Detroit."
Nearly every public school across the city is closed Wednesday because of excessive teacher absences.
The district has been under state financial management for almost seven years.
"The recent action of teachers is not an attempt to drown out the voices of the students," she said. "It is an attempt to finally make their voices heard."
"Things happen in a school in an instant..."
"I just think it's sad," said one student. "Like, do you want to teach us or do you not? I just don't understand that."
DPS Emergency Manager Darnell Earley said any teacher suspected of being involved in the sick-out will be under review.
"While we can agree to disagree on matters of policy, those disagreements should never impact our students..."
"I believe that the state of Michigan should be sued...I think it's a crime."
The district also says its losing fewer students than it has in previous years.
