Music Education Policy Roundup – October 7, 2019

National News

Minority-serving institutions poised to lose $255M in federal funding

10/1/19- ‘Although historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other minority-serving institutions (MSIs) are chronically underfunded, gridlock in Congress may further drain their coffers.’

State News

Majority of Michigan public schools started school year short on teachers

9/26/19- ‘Six out of 10 Michigan school districts started this school year without enough full-time teachers to fill their classrooms, according to a survey of Michigan school superintendents.’

Michigan governor signs budget with $1B in line-item vetoes

9/30/19- ‘Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the next state budget Monday hours before the deadline to fund government, while using line-item vetoes to block nearly $1 billion in spending proposed by the Republican-led Legislature.’

Chicago teachers have authorized a strike. Here’s what you need to know, and the latest on the talks.

9/27/19- ‘The Chicago Teachers Union has voted to authorize a strike. So now what? Here’s a guide to what to expect.’

Kansas just changed how students get into universities, and a significant rule is gone

9/18/19- ‘More students will qualify for Kansas universities after the elimination of a rule that they take courses in English, math and science in order to be admitted.’

Florida superintendents, state education officials begin work on teacher raise plan

9/23/19- ‘Florida education commissioner Richard Corcoran announced in July that improved teacher compensation would be a “huge component” of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ agenda for the 2020 legislative session.’

WV- Senate adjourns, ending special session on education

9/23/19- ‘West Virginia’s special session is officially over.The Senate adjourned the education-focused session after a brief meeting Monday, capping a gridlocked legislative overtime where lawmakers approved a sweeping GOP plan to allow the state’s first charter schools despite heavy protests from teachers.’

Policy Roundup brought to you by NAfME’s Matt Barusch.