education

Governor Whitmer Celebrates Michigan’s Second Highest Graduation Rate

Following the announcement of Michigan’s near-record graduation rate, Governor Gretchen Whitmer reiterated her commitment to advancing education in the state. 

With the Center for Educational Performance and Information reporting the second highest graduation rate ever, Governor Whitmer highlighted the state’s progress in her tenure. In her 2024 State of the State Address, she emphasized expanding pre-K for all and advocating for tuition-free community college for high school graduates through the proposed “Michigan Guarantee.” This initiative aims to ensure every Michigander has access to quality education from pre-K through community college, setting them up for future success. 

Governor Whitmer expressed determination to build on existing momentum, citing measures like enhanced mental health services and expanded tutoring programs, emphasizing the importance of educational investment for Michigan’s future prosperity.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Enacts Law Mandating Dental Screenings For Kindergarten Entry

Michigan has taken a proactive step towards improving school readiness and promoting oral health awareness by passing Public Act 316 in 2023. 

Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, children entering kindergarten will be required to undergo a dental screening or oral health assessment, similar to vision and hearing screenings. To meet this requirement, parents or guardians are advised to follow a simple process. Firstly, they should download the necessary form from the provided link. Secondly, the child’s dentist should complete the form following the screening. Finally, the completed form must be returned to the child’s school before the commencement of classes or no later than October 31st. 

This initiative aims to ensure that children start their educational journey with optimal oral health, contributing to their overall well-being and academic success.

For more information, visit: michigan.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Daniel Hale Williams: Founder Of America’s First Black-Owned Hospital And Pioneer Of Heart Surgery

Born in 1858 in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, Daniel Hale Williams carved an enduring mark in medical history as an African American. Williams’s journey from shoemaker to surgeon exemplifies resilience and determination.

Following his pursuit of education, Williams apprenticed under a former surgeon general, paving his path to medical studies at Chicago Medical College. His career flourished in Chicago, where he established himself as a prominent surgeon and educator, advocating for racial integration in healthcare.

In 1891, Williams realized his vision by founding Provident Hospital and Training School for Nurses, the nation’s first interracial medical institution. This groundbreaking endeavor provided a platform for both black and white medical professionals, cementing Williams’s legacy as a pioneer in medicine and champion of equality in healthcare. He was also the first person to perform a successful open heart surgery in 1893.

Dr. Williams died in 1931. The Daniel Hale Williams Medical Reading Club in Washington, D.C., commemorates his achievements.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Multiple Options Available For Michiganders To Cast Ballots In Upcoming Presidential Primary

As Michigan gears up for the upcoming presidential primary on Tuesday, February 27th, residents are reminded of the various methods available for casting their votes. 

Since 2018, Michiganders have had the option to vote absentee without providing a reason, streamlining the voting process for registered voters. To request an absentee ballot, individuals can utilize the state’s online absentee voter request form up until 5 p.m. the Friday preceding the election. Forms for absentee ballot requests are accessible online in multiple languages and formats, including English, Arabic, Bengali, Farsi, Spanish, and large print. 

Alternatively, voters can contact their local city or township clerk to request a mailed application. It’s crucial to note that the primary is closed, necessitating voters to choose between Democratic or Republican ballots, whether voting in person or absentee.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Urgency Mounts As Deadline Approaches For Community Foundation Of St. Clair County Scholarship Funds

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County is currently overseeing a diverse range of scholarship funds aimed at supporting students in pursuing higher education. Among these funds is the prestigious Come Home Award, alongside other traditional scholarships, all designed to assist students in fulfilling their academic aspirations.

With various criteria set by the donors, these scholarships offer students a valuable opportunity to fund their college or vocational education. The application process for traditional scholarships, which begin in early January, is quickly coming to a close, with a priority deadline of mid-March.

Eligible candidates include high school graduates, incoming freshmen, upperclassmen, and non-traditional students, with opportunities available for various academic levels and institutions, both in Michigan and out-of-state. Time is of the essence to submit applications before the deadline.

For more information, visit: stclairfoundation.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Hosts Annual National African American Read-In Event

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is set to host an enriching African American Literature Read-In event as part of the nationwide celebration of the National African American Read-In. 

Established in 1990 by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English, the event at SC4 will take place on February 24th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the SC4 Fine Arts Theatre. This event is free for all attendees.

Local K-12 students will share excerpts from children’s literature by African American authors, aiming to intertwine literacy with the essence of Black History Month. Notable features include a compelling conversation between SC4’s English professor, Chris Hilton, and Chief Diversity Officer Jessica Brown, exploring the event’s significance in promoting literacy and cultural understanding.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell