The School Success Partnership program, a groundbreaking initiative in Michigan, is under threat of drastic funding cuts. This program, which has been hailed as a model for improving school attendance and grades among vulnerable students, is facing a stark contrast in state support. The program's success is evident in its ability to bridge the gap between schools, families, and community services, resulting in higher attendance and improved academic performance. However, the state's proposed budget for 2026-2027 omits the crucial $1.5 million allocation that funds almost half of the program's operations. This decision is particularly concerning given the state's struggles with literacy and the program's proven effectiveness. The irony is that while Michigan grapples with improving literacy, it simultaneously defunds a program that has shown tangible results. The program's impact is profound, as evidenced by the significant reduction in chronic absenteeism rates in schools where School Success liaisons are present. For instance, Onaway Elementary School witnessed a remarkable 12.8% drop in chronic absenteeism after the introduction of a School Success liaison. This improvement is directly linked to the program's comprehensive approach, addressing both academic and non-academic barriers that students and families face. The program's success extends beyond attendance; it enhances academic performance by providing the necessary support to students and families. The School Success Partnership program operates through the Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency, offering services that schools and teachers often lack the time to provide. This includes intense work with at-risk students and families, both inside and outside the school environment, to address their basic needs and create a supportive environment. The program's effectiveness is further highlighted by its historical context. Started in 1991 in Alpena Public Schools, it has expanded as Michigan's test scores plummeted, particularly in reading. The state's poor school attendance is a critical factor in its low test scores, and the program's focus on addressing attendance issues has shown promising results. However, the program's future is uncertain due to the proposed budget cuts. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services defended the defunding, citing a similar program, the Family Impact Team, as a replacement. Yet, there are significant differences between the two programs. The Family Impact Team focuses on connecting families with social services, while the School Success Partnership program takes a more holistic approach, addressing both academic and non-academic barriers. This distinction is crucial, as evidenced by the lack of contact between Traverse City Superintendent John VanWagoner and Family Impact Team employees, while the School Success liaisons are actively involved in the communities they serve. The program's impact is deeply personal, as shared by parents and students. Taylor Schuch, whose daughter excelled in kindergarten with behavioral issues, credits the program's support and relationship with Lisa Werth, the liaison, for her daughter's success. Similarly, Bella Verdusco, a 17-year-old student, credits her relationship with Madison Nachtrieb, a School Success liaison, for her continued education. The program's value is not just in its academic achievements but also in its ability to provide emotional support and build trust. The program's future is uncertain, and the potential loss of funding could have devastating consequences. The program's director, Dorothy Pintar, faces the challenge of laying off employees and pulling out of some schools, which could disrupt the progress made in the communities they serve. The program's reliance on school contributions, currently at 47% of costs, is a concern, as additional funding from schools is unlikely. The situation is further complicated by the political landscape. While the program has received recognition, including the 2023 Governor's Service Award, its funding is a small item in the state's budget. The program's advocates, including Rep. John Roth, are pleading for more money, recognizing the misunderstanding of the program's comprehensive nature. The program's fate hangs in the balance, with Pintar scrambling to apply for grants and the community awaiting the state's budget approval. The story of the School Success Partnership program serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between education, community support, and state funding. It highlights the importance of investing in programs that have proven to be transformative for students and families, especially in rural and underserved areas. As the state navigates its budget decisions, the program's future remains uncertain, leaving a community that has found success and support in a program that may soon be at risk of being defunded.
