education

Wayne State University has partnered with Detroit Public Schools Community District to launch "Warriors on the Rise," a guaranteed admission program that promises university entry to DPSCD juniors and seniors who maintain a 3.0 GPA and complete core English and math credits. The comprehensive initiative goes beyond admission by offering year-round support including mentoring, college prep workshops, academic advising, financial aid navigation, and transportation assistance. Beginning in February 2026, qualified students will receive invitations to join the program, followed by campus visits, summer social events, dual-enrollment opportunities, and ongoing family involvement. The program aims to transform Detroit students' access to higher education by removing barriers, building confidence, and creating clear pathways for success.

Michigan's Department of Education has proposed the first update to its K-12 health education guidelines since 2007, addressing contemporary challenges like the opioid crisis, smartphone use, and mental health concerns. The draft updates shift from grade-specific standards to more flexible grade ranges and emphasize ongoing "practices" rather than fixed "standards," borrowing from national health education updates and Massachusetts' model. While providing a framework that covers personal wellness, substance use, mental health, and sexual health, the guidelines ultimately allow local school districts to determine implementation, particularly regarding contentious areas like sexual health education. The update acknowledges that today's health challenges differ significantly from those in 2007, requiring schools to equip students with tools to navigate increasingly complex physical, mental, and social landscapes.

Detroit City Council president and mayoral frontrunner Mary Sheffield stated she would actively oppose any Trump administration attempts to deploy National Guard troops in Detroit, emphasizing this would not address public safety concerns. Her comments came after Vice President J.D. Vance suggested sending National Guard to Detroit to combat crime, despite the city reporting significant crime reductions in recent years. Sheffield highlighted the traumatic history of National Guard deployment during the 1967 Detroit Riots and advocated instead for community violence intervention programs, youth programming, education, mental health, and housing investments. The article notes that Detroit reported 252 homicides in 2023—the lowest number since 1966—though the per capita rate remains higher than in the past.

The Michigan gubernatorial race has intensified with competing Teamsters endorsements for two Detroit candidates. Michigan Teamsters Joint Council 43 endorsed independent Mayor Mike Duggan, while Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson secured endorsements from five local Teamsters unions representing a majority of the state's members. The endorsement announcements created controversy when Duggan's campaign initially claimed incorrectly that all ten local affiliate unions had endorsed him. Both candidates, along with other Democratic and Republican contenders, continue to seek labor support in the increasingly competitive race for governor.

NBA player Tobias Harris has launched a $4 million homeownership initiative in Detroit to address the city's affordable housing crisis. The program will provide up to 40% down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers in nine working-class neighborhoods, using a shared appreciation model designed to make homeownership more accessible than renting. Targeting individuals earning up to 140% of the area median income, the initiative aims to help 100-130 Detroiters become homeowners while addressing historical inequities in mortgage lending that have disproportionately affected Black communities. Harris hopes to eventually expand the program to $10 million in commitments to create greater impact in a city where housing costs are rising while incomes remain stagnant.

Apple is opening its first Detroit retail store at 1430 Woodward Avenue on September 19, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models. The 11,200-square-foot location includes 6,500 square feet of retail space and is situated near the Shinola Hotel in an area developed by Bedrock, which pursued Apple for over a decade. This milestone store opening is expected to reduce the estimated $2.6 billion that Detroit residents spend annually outside the city for retail purchases while reinforcing downtown as a shopping destination. The store joins Apple's existing Michigan locations in Troy, Novi, and Ann Arbor, providing Detroit residents with more convenient access to Apple products and services.

Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and State Senator Jeremy Moss received bomb threats against their homes last week, prompting immediate responses from multiple law enforcement agencies. Both officials thanked police for their swift action in clearing the threats, which are now under investigation by the FBI and other agencies. Gilchrist expressed concern about the normalization of such threats in public service, noting he had to discuss the situation with his school-aged children. Moss, who is gay and Jewish, reported receiving an increase in bigoted messages prior to the threat, suggesting these incidents may be part of a broader attempt to instill fear in the political environment.

The Kresge Foundation has announced plans to relocate its headquarters from Troy to Detroit's Marygrove Conservancy campus while committing $180 million to improve the Livernois-McNichols corridor in Northwest Detroit. The five-year investment will focus on stabilizing housing, promoting homeownership, enhancing public spaces, and revitalizing commercial areas in the Fitzgerald, Bagley, University District, and Martin Park neighborhoods. The foundation will construct a 70,000-square-foot headquarters using $130 million in bonds rather than drawing from its $4 billion endowment, with completion expected by 2028 for its 130 employees. This move represents a return to Detroit for the foundation, which originally operated downtown before relocating to Troy in 1950.

Former Detroit mayoral candidate Saunteel Jenkins has endorsed City Council President Mary Sheffield in the upcoming mayoral election, despite their previous contentious primary battle. The endorsement took place at Cody High School beside a tree planted to honor Jenkins' brother who was killed by gun violence, highlighting both candidates' shared commitment to reducing gun violence through youth investment. Jenkins cited Sheffield's potential to become Detroit's first woman mayor, her commitment to public safety, and dedication to education as key reasons for the endorsement. Despite Sheffield expressing interest in having Jenkins join her administration should she win the November 4 election against Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr., Jenkins indicated she's not currently interested in a cabinet position, stating she's enjoying her free time.

Lisa Harrison, a senior sales immunology specialist at Johnson & Johnson, has been appointed as Society Ambassador of the American Heart Association's Metro Detroit Board of Directors for a two-year term that began July 1. In this leadership role, Harrison will guide healthcare, business, and community leaders to advance the Association's mission in Metro Detroit. Harrison, who lost both her father and father-in-law to heart disease complications, brings over 20 years of healthcare leadership experience and multiple accomplishments from her current role at Johnson & Johnson. Southeast Michigan American Heart Association Executive Director Sara Hegarty praised Harrison's passion and expertise, noting she will be "instrumental in driving impact across the Metro Detroit community."

U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon visited multiple schools in Detroit as part of a national tour promoting conservative education policies including school choice and opposing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. McMahon, appointed by President Trump, is conducting a fifty-state tour focused on "returning education to the states" and expanding parental choice in education. Her Detroit school visits weren't publicly announced and included Renaissance High School, Washington Parks Academy, and Pembroke Academy, with Republican House Speaker Matt Hall joining her at Renaissance High. Democratic Representative Regina Weiss criticized the visit, pointing to potential education budget cuts for Detroit schools and arguing that Michigan demonstrates the need for federal oversight rather than elimination.

Porcha Woodruff, a Black pregnant woman, was wrongfully arrested for carjacking in Detroit after facial recognition technology misidentified her in surveillance footage. Despite her subsequent release and the charges being dropped, U.S. District Judge Judith Levy dismissed Woodruff's civil rights lawsuit against the officer who pursued the arrest warrant. The case highlights the persistent inaccuracy of facial recognition technology in identifying Black faces and its real-world consequences when used in policing. In response to this and similar incidents, Detroit police have amended their policy to not make arrests based solely on facial recognition results, though Woodruff's attorney has confirmed an appeal of the court's decision is underway.

A new report by the Michigan Citizens Research Council reveals that implementing an admissions tax on sports and entertainment venues in Detroit could generate between $14 million and $47 million annually, potentially allowing the city to reduce its high property taxes. The report, commissioned by Detroit's Legislative Policy Division, highlights how the city bears significant costs when hosting major events at its numerous sports venues and entertainment facilities. Detroit City Council president Mary Sheffield supports such a tax initiative, along with considering a 0.5% city sales tax, though implementation would require state authorization, city council approval, and voter support in a general election.

The Michigan Chronicle has opened nominations for the 2026 Women of Excellence awards, marking the 19th year of this program that recognizes Black women's leadership and impact across Michigan. The initiative honors women who excel in various fields including business, community service, civic engagement, and social advocacy, creating a legacy that highlights Black women's crucial contributions to Detroit's progress. Recognition through these awards validates the sacrifices and investments made by women of color who might otherwise go unacknowledged, while also inspiring younger generations by providing powerful role models. The Chronicle's commitment to sustaining this tradition reflects its dedication to highlighting local leadership within broader conversations about gender equity and racial justice.

Rx Kids, an innovative cash aid program created in Flint by Dr. Mona Hanna, has expanded to 11 Michigan communities, providing pregnant women with $1,500 during pregnancy followed by monthly payments after birth. The program, which has distributed approximately $14 million to over 3,300 families, aims to address infant poverty by giving mothers financial resources to stabilize their households. A May 2025 survey revealed that 87% of participants said the program helped them "make ends meet," while 72% reported it allowed them to take time off work for family care. Michigan lawmakers are now considering legislation that would scale Rx Kids statewide, potentially making Michigan the first state to guarantee such support for all new mothers.

A proposed constitutional amendment by 482 Forward aims to increase school funding by implementing an additional 5% tax on high-income earners - specifically on annual taxable income over $1 million for joint filers and $500,000 for single filers. The initiative faces opposition from business groups like the Detroit Regional Chamber, which argues the tax would harm economic competitiveness and small businesses. Though the Board of State Canvassers initially approved the petition language, they later rescinded approval, resulting in a deadlock at a subsequent meeting over concerns about fund allocation. Despite legal challenges claiming their signatures are invalid, 482 Forward continues gathering signatures and remains confident their petition language will ultimately be approved.

The article explores the critical importance of African-centered education for Black students in Detroit through the personal journey of Tiffany Brockington, who attended Nataki Talibah Schoolhouse. This school, founded by Carmen N'Namdi in 1978, was designed to counter Eurocentric curricula by intentionally weaving African history, cultural pride, and community responsibility into all subject areas. Data shows fewer than 20% of Michigan public schools offer structured African American history courses before high school, creating an educational environment where Black heritage is treated as optional rather than foundational. Brockington's experience demonstrates how culturally affirming education empowered her with confidence and purpose, ultimately leading her to become an educator and doctoral candidate focused on developing community-based educational programs.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has received endorsements from over 200 current and former elected officials from across Michigan for his independent gubernatorial campaign. This diverse coalition, which Duggan's campaign claims is the largest for any gubernatorial candidate in the race, includes Republicans, Democrats, and Independents from communities throughout the state. Duggan, who left the Democratic Party last year, states he's running as an independent to end "toxic partisanship" in Lansing and fix Michigan's education system. His campaign has also attracted support from eight unions representing more than 25,000 members, over 150 faith leaders, and the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The 2025 Game Changer Classic, a fundraising event benefiting First Tee - Greater Detroit (FTGD), will be held on August 25, 2025, at Wabeek Country Club in Oakland County. FTGD is a nonprofit organization that utilizes golf to teach essential life skills to young people, including leadership, communication, and resilience. The event will feature a full day of activities beginning with check-in at 8 a.m., followed by golf, an awards ceremony, and a dinner reception. Wabeek Country Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye, represents a strategic new venue for the fundraiser which serves as one of FTGD's primary fundraising events.

The $75 million Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park is set to open in Detroit on October 25-26, 2023, after three and a half years of construction, creating a 22-acre riverfront destination. The park opening coincides with the completion of a new boardwalk section that will allow uninterrupted travel along nearly five miles of the Detroit River. Designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates with architectural elements by Sir David Adjaye, the park features four major attractions: the William Davidson Sport House, Delta Dental Play Garden, Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden, and the DTE Foundation Summit. Despite financial challenges following an embezzlement scandal, the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation provided critical funding to keep construction on schedule, with the park now approximately 90% complete.

Focus: Hope, a Detroit nonprofit founded in 1968, is facing a major crisis after losing $6 million in federal Head Start funding with no explanation from the federal government. This unexpected cut will terminate early childhood education programs serving four Detroit ZIP codes (48202, 48206, 48211, and 48238), eliminate at least 90 jobs, and leave hundreds of children and families without crucial services. The organization has already furloughed 45 staff members and laid off an additional 50 employees as a result of this funding loss. CEO Portia Roberson suggests the cuts may be related to broader Trump administration efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, though no official reason has been provided.

The MI Black Student Project's Pipeline 2 Prosperity Initiative (MiBSP) is a comprehensive effort launched by educators, parents, students, and advocates to eliminate barriers to Black student success in Michigan. This initiative encompasses multiple programs including Commission REI, which teaches financial literacy and real estate education, and LIT Summer under Hip Hop 4 Change, both designed to empower Black students academically and economically. MiBSP combines educational interventions with academic research led by scholars like Dr. Erica Edwards and Dr. Rema Vassar from Wayne State University, while also supporting youth-led work through programs such as Students Leading Well. The initiative takes a holistic approach that extends beyond improving test scores to address economic justice and social healing, with research components analyzing literacy proficiency data from 120 Michigan districts to determine effective instructional strategies.

Detroit faces significant economic challenges with high unemployment rates and income disparities, with households earning $31,000 less than the regional average and $45,000 below what a family of four needs to survive. The Detroit Economic Justice Coalition (DEJC) is advocating for policy changes in their 2025 platform to address workforce barriers, including blanket exclusion policies that prevent people with prior convictions from accessing jobs. According to estimates, persistent inequities are costing the Detroit region approximately $28 billion in lost economic activity annually. The author, Margrit Allen, Director of Workforce Innovation at a multi-state healthcare system, argues that economic justice initiatives are not just moral imperatives but practical solutions for business growth and talent retention.

Detroit's primary election on Tuesday saw a smooth voting process with a 16.9% turnout (85,971 voters), an improvement from 14% four years ago. City Council President Mary Sheffield emerged as the frontrunner in the mayoral race, securing 50.82% of votes, while Pastor Solomon Kinloch finished second with 17%. The election will reshape the City Council with new representatives coming to Districts 5 and 7, where candidates including Denzel McCampbell, State Rep. Karen Whitsett, Willie Burton, and Renata Miller advanced to the November general election. Despite Sheffield's strong showing, the 42,399 voters who chose other candidates represent potential support that Kinloch will need to target before the general election.

Tiffany J. Gunter has been appointed as the new General Manager of the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) following Dwight A. Ferrell's departure on August 1 after four years of service. Gunter, who previously served as SMART's Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, brings over 20 years of expertise in transportation, urban planning, and public policy to the role. The SMART board unanimously selected her for her collaborative leadership style, strategic insight, and deep community connections in Southeast Michigan. Under Ferrell's leadership, SMART expanded service routes, modernized infrastructure, and improved rider satisfaction, with Gunter now positioned to build on this progress while addressing broader issues of racial equity, climate resilience, and economic access.

Detroit's August 5, 2025 primary election saw alarmingly low voter participation, with only about 15% of the city's 518,000 registered voters casting ballots. This continues a troubling trend of declining civic engagement, dropping even below the already low 22% turnout recorded in 2021. Despite having multiple candidates in the mayoral race, including established politicians like Mary Sheffield and Fred Durhal III alongside newcomers such as Pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr. and Todd Perkins, most eligible voters chose not to participate. The dismal turnout reflects deeper issues of voter disillusionment, with many Detroiters feeling their votes make little difference as persistent problems like crime, housing instability, and economic inequality remain unresolved.

As Detroit approaches local elections with candidates vying for the city's top seat, the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act on August 6, 2025, holds special significance. The Detroit Public Library is commemorating this milestone with a presentation by Amber Mitchell, Curator of Black History at The Henry Ford, about the historic Jackson Home from Selma, Alabama, which was relocated to The Henry Ford campus in 2024. This historic home, where civil rights leaders like Dr. King strategized before the Selma to Montgomery marches, will open to the public at Greenfield Village in June 2026. The anniversary serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of ongoing challenges to voting rights, particularly as Detroit residents prepare to elect new leadership in a city with deep ties to the Civil Rights Movement.

The inaugural Lomas Brown Jr. Golf Classic at the Country Club of Detroit raised $268,700 for The Children's Foundation and the Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation, attracting NFL legends and community supporters. The sold-out event, presented by WJR AM 760 and sponsored by Ford Motor Company, continues the fundraising legacy of the Paul W. Smith Golf Classic that supported Detroit-area youth programs for over two decades. Notable attendees included NFL Hall of Famers Barry Sanders and Calvin Johnson, alongside numerous Detroit Lions alumni, participating in golf, a reception, and a fundraising auction featuring custom golf carts. The funds will support children's health, education, and enrichment programs throughout Southeast Michigan, with a second annual event already scheduled for July 13, 2026.

This sponsored article by JPMorganChase offers comprehensive advice for affordable summer travel during what is typically the most expensive travel season. The guidance includes starting a vacation fund by cutting unnecessary expenses and leveraging credit card travel rewards to offset costs. The article recommends strategic timing approaches such as traveling during shoulder seasons and booking flights approximately two months in advance, while also suggesting money-saving alternatives like exploring lesser-known destinations, using public transportation, and taking advantage of free or discounted attractions. For those with tighter budgets, the article proposes staycations, day trips, and visits to state or national parks as enriching yet economical alternatives.

The Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) Board of Education filled its vacant seat by appointing Reverend Dr. Steve Bland, Jr., a longtime faith leader and public education advocate, during a special meeting on July 28. This appointment completes the seven-member board at a critical time as the district continues implementing its strategic plan, Blueprint 2027, while recovering from years of state oversight and building community trust. Rev. Dr. Bland's selection followed a transparent public process where 14 candidates were interviewed, reinforcing the board's commitment to local governance and community-centered leadership. The appointment represents another significant step in Detroit's ongoing journey to maintain local control of its school system after years of state emergency management that had negatively impacted resources and educational decision-making.