From the Office of the Governor

by Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of Michigan

We have high expectations for our students in Michigan. In fact, our goal in the next ten years is to double the number of college graduates. Technology can help. According to reports through the United States Department of Education and the North Central Regional Educational Laboratory, literacy, writing, and math skills improve with innovative new uses of technology. Technology initiatives like the Michigan Virtual High School (MIVHS), Freedom to Learn, Partners in Learning, and more are helping Michigan’s dedicated teachers learn about and use technology as a valuable tool in elevating student achievement. These tools are also helping teachers to prepare young scholars to pursue higher education in this rapidly changing 21st century economy.

The skilled use of technology in the classroom can offer students motivating, hands-on practice, and it can link students to the world far beyond their classrooms and community. The Internet has opened new doors in distance learning and the MIVHS (www.mivhs.org) is expanding student access to education. With MIVHS, students now can take classes that may not be offered through their home districts. Operated by Michigan Virtual University, MIVHS can be accessed by school districts throughout the state. All online classes are conducted by highly qualified teachers. Classes operate on flexible schedules to help students work at their own pace. Through MIVHS, students can improve basic skills, explore subjects of interest, and prepare for college entrance or advanced placement exams.

Last summer saw the launch of the Michigan Virtual Summer School. This online summer school allows a student to continue her/his education during the summer break. Over the past summer, students were able to take advantage of a wide array of classes, ranging from pre-algebra to computer science to oceanography. The program also enabled students to improve their study skills and to examine potential career opportunities.

To further ensure we achieve our goal of doubling the number of college graduates, we are reaching younger students through the Freedom to Learn (FTL) initiative, which provides laptop computers and wireless technology to middle school students. FTL is coordinated by the Michigan Department of Education and Michigan Virtual University. The program equips sixth grade students with wireless laptops and provides subject-area and technological support to schools as well. FTL supports 19,671 students in districts throughout the state by increasing their access to technology and expanding learning beyond the classroom walls.

A key component for increasing student achievement is ensuring that students see that classroom learning is relevant to their future careers. Last August, we finalized Partners in Learning, a five-year partnership with Microsoft, which will help students connect the content they learn in school with future career possibilities. The program also will provide teachers with a wealth of resources to assist them in meeting the goals of No Child Left Behind. Partners in Learning is administered by my office, the Department of Education, the Department of Labor and Economic Growth, Michigan Virtual University, and Microsoft Corporation. Over the next five years, Microsoft will contribute up to $4 million to support our students through technology programs. Our first Partners in Learning programs will be in place late next year.

It’s time to embrace the changes that technology brings to education. The many exciting technology initiatives you’ll read about in this issue of Leading Change are keys to unlocking the potential for Michigan students to meet our high expectations and move competently and successfully into the future.

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