Launch Michigan response to Gov. Whitmer’s State of the State address

Venessa Keesler, president and CEO of Launch Michigan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reimagining Michigan’s public education system, released the following statement in response to Gov. Whitmer’s 2024 State of the State address.

“Michigan’s current public education system is preparing our kids for the jobs of 50 years ago that don’t align with the growth of the knowledge economy. Only one-third of Michigan high school graduates are "ready for college," according to SAT scores. That’s why in the Launch Michigan framework we call for ensuring access to a meaningful high school diploma so that our students are prepared for opportunities for future education, training and the workforce.” 

“We look forward to working alongside Gov. Whitmer and the Legislature to make sure all Michigan students can take advantage of free, high-quality pre-K and two years of free community college, to ensure every student is set up for success."

The Launch Michigan framework for reimagining Michigan’s public education system is built around three pillars: Responsibility, Reinvention and Resources. The Launch Michigan framework can be found here.