Detroit Mayor Proposes $4.5 Billion Education Investment

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News Summary

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has proposed a $4.5 billion investment plan aimed at enhancing Michigan’s education system. Announced during the Mackinac Policy Conference, the plan includes increased training for teachers, rebuilding technical education programs, and strict accountability measures for school principals. Duggan criticized political turmoil and enforcement of inconsistent education policies, stating they hinder progress. As he prepares for the upcoming 2026 Democratic primary, Duggan’s proposal emphasizes bipartisan support for urgent reforms to address funding disparities and improve student outcomes across Michigan’s schools.

Detroit – Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has unveiled a proposal for a $4.5 billion investment in Michigan education, aiming to enhance educational outcomes statewide. The announcement was made during the Mackinac Policy Conference, where Duggan outlined an ambitious plan designed to train more teachers and literacy instructors while rebuilding technical education programs in high schools that he described as being “decimated.”

The investment proposal includes significant accountability measures for school principals. While acknowledging that these measures may cause some discontent, Duggan stressed the necessity of ensuring that schools show tangible progress. Failures to improve could lead to serious consequences, including the firing of principals after a three-year period if schools do not demonstrate adequate improvements. Schools that fail to make progress would be required to submit improvement plans within their first year and would receive state support if their outcomes remain stagnant.

Duggan emphasized the need for a structured accountability approach, comparing it to business practices where leadership changes are expected after repeated failures. He announced plans to establish an “educator-led group” tasked with evaluating schools and assessing potential repercussions for school leaders who do not meet performance standards. Although he clarified that the state would not appoint principals directly, maintaining accountability for educational outcomes would be a priority.

population loss and discouraging reading scores among fourth-grade students. His criticism extended to negative political advertisements from both major parties, which he believes have eroded public trust in the system. 2026 Democratic primary, Duggan faces competition from notable candidates such as Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist. Following the policy conference, he intends to engage in fundraising efforts to support his gubernatorial campaign.