Michigan's educational landscape is poised to maintain its trajectory even as it braces for a change at the helm. The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is steadfastly marching forward, ensuring that the imminent transition in state superintendency will not deter progress towards strategic educational goals. As reported by the Michigan Department of Education, Dr. Michael F. Rice concluded his tenure as superintendent of public instruction, making way for Dr. Sue C. Carnell to temporarily guide MDE's ship starting tomorrow, until Dr. Glenn Maleyko takes over the reins on December 8.
In the interim, it appears that the department's focus will not drift from its intended course. Dr. Carnell, equipped with 40 years of experience in the field of education, is set to continue to drive the Department's focus on its Top 10 Strategic Education Plan. Dr. Glenn Maleyko, bringing three decades of enriched experience from his time with Dearborn Public Schools, is due to step into the role permanently later this year. State Board of Education President Dr. Pamela Pugh expressed confidence, stating, per the Michigan Department of Education, "I am confident that during the transition we will not miss a beat in continuing to advance Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan and making further improvements to public education."
Dr. Rice leaves behind an impressive legacy, with Michigan reaching historic landmarks under his leadership. Notably, the state saw its highest four-year graduation rate at 82.8% in 2024 and substantial increases in student participation across prestigious secondary school programs. These accomplishments are marker stones alongside the upward trajectory in teacher preparation program enrollment, the expansion of children's mental health and school safety funding, and legislative advancements in literacy and dyslexia intervention.
