Nonpublic schools serve tens of thousands of Michigan elementary and secondary students, yet a clear understanding of the state's diverse private education landscape has been lacking. While most states (including those on our borders) have enacted some kind of publicly funded choice program, Michigan private schools fight in the Legislature for a small share of funding to cover the state’s health and safety mandates. In order to expand choice, Michigan must overcome a stringent constitution, as well as some popular misconceptions about private schools.

The Mackinac Center and the Michigan Association of Nonpublic Schools partnered to conduct a statewide private school survey. The responses of educators representing hundreds of private schools highlight key areas, including student characteristics, tuition costs, teacher qualifications, and standardized testing practices. Their answers also give insight into how many more students could be served if Michigan were to expand educational choice. Come get a unique glimpse into the current state of Michigan private schools, and join the policy conversation concerning how to give more families access to a quality education.

Rachel White is a doctoral candidate at Michigan State University. Her research focuses on K-12 education governance and finance. Rachel previously served as the Director of Policy & Advocacy at the Ohio College Access Network while obtaining a Master's in Education Policy & Leadership from The Ohio State University. Rachel received her Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy.

Lunch is free and is included with reservations.

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If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Event Manager Kimberley Fischer-Kinne at 989-698-1905 or events@mackinac.org.