LANSING – State Rep. Andy Dillon (D-Redford) today announced he will be introducing a plan to give residents and local officials a larger voice in the development of school consolidation plans. The legislation also requires school districts to report on the progress of their deficit reduction plans and to publish five-year financial forecasts to provide residents and local officials more notice regarding the financial health of their local school districts.
"We need to make sure the residents and local officials have a seat at the table when our school boards develop, adopt and implement major reforms," Dillon said. "These decisions can have a significant, long-term impact on the community, and the residents and local officials deserve a seat at the table."
"The legislation also requires school districts operating under deficit reduction plans to issue quarterly reports, so the residents and local officials can monitor their progress and make sure the districts are living up to their promises." Dillon added.
In order to make sure affected communities have enough time to adjust to the changing conditions of their community, Dillon also is introducing legislation requiring school boards to publish five-year financial forecasts.
"Developing a plan to shrink or expand a school district is complicated," Dillon said. "There are a lot of factors to consider. A couple of months is not enough time to come up with the best solution for the community. For this reason, my legislation will require school districts to prepare five-year financial forecasts, so the residents will have the opportunity to participate in the process before there is a crisis."
Dillon's legislation will require public school districts to appoint a public board to develop consolidation or expansion plans. The board will consist of representatives nominated by the school board, superintendent, local governmental officials and the parents.
"The goal is to make sure that everyone has a voice in the process." Dillon added.