Article Summary –
The newly established Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP) aims to improve the state’s educational outcomes from preschool through college. The department is focused on making education from prekindergarten onwards more accessible and affordable, with initiatives such as universal free pre-K for all 4-year-olds and tuition-free community college for high school graduates. Additionally, MiLEAP is working towards achieving its “Sixty by 30” goal, which aspires to have 60% of working-age adults earn a post-high school degree by 2030.
Michigan’s New Lifelong Learning Department Focuses on Education Advancement
Michigan’s Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) launched two months ago with a vision to enhance educational outcomes from preschool through college. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s goal is to ensure anyone can “make it in Michigan,” as stated at its inception.
Established by Whitmer in July, MiLEAP consolidated over 300 staff from various state departments. Its aim is to address gaps in the existing education system, according to acting director Michelle Richard.
“Education should start earlier than kindergarten and continue beyond 12th grade,” Richard explained. “We need an intentional infrastructure supporting this for kids, families, and students.” MiLEAP’s role is to facilitate this and provide access to affordable options and pathways to good-paying jobs in Michigan.
With a background as an elementary school teacher and advisor to Whitmer, Richard sees MiLEAP as a chance to significantly improve the quality of education for Michigan families.
One of MiLEAP’s key objectives is attaining Whitmer’s goal of free prekindergarten for all Michigan families. In her latest State of the State address, Whitmer proposed universal free pre-K for all 4-year-olds to be included in the next state budget.
Attending pre-K improves educational outcomes, graduation rates, and future earnings, according to the administration. Currently, cost prohibits 40% of Michigan 4-year-olds from attending pre-K. Universal pre-K could save families up to $10,000 annually.
At the higher education end, MiLEAP is administering state investments in college financial aid and promoting the benefits of higher education in conjunction with Whitmer’s plan for tuition-free community college for every Michigan high school graduate.
Richard noted that the best-paying jobs often require education beyond high school. She added that many families view a skills certificate or a college degree as unattainable. MiLEAP’s mission is to change this perception.
“You shouldn’t have to wonder if you can afford college,” Richard stated. “We want to create ease in deciding whether college is the next step, knowing that low-cost or no-cost options are available.”
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