The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Michigan Business Leaders for Education Excellence (MBLEE) today announced its support of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan for his decision to return the Detroit Public Schools to a firm financial footing.

"Superintendent Flanagan's action provides a clear direction that Detroit Public Schools can no longer continue business as usual and that it is time to put the education of children first," said Michigan Chamber President & CEO Rich Studley.

"School children and parents are suffering from the District's chronic inability to manage its finances," Studley added. "Enough is enough. Only when strong financial management is restored will the District deserve to be recognized as 'first class.'"

"The law is clear and Superintendent Flanagan has acted in a reasonable manner," noted Jim Sandy, MBLEE Executive Director. "I know Mike Flanagan has the interest of children as his first priority."

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce is a statewide business advocacy organization representing over 7,100 employers, trade associations, and local chambers of commerce. In 2009, the Michigan Chamber will celebrate its 50th anniversary. The Chamber holds the distinction of being one of only four state chambers of commerce accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

MBLEE is an affiliate program of the Michigan Chamber Foundation.

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SOURCE: Michigan Chamber of Commerce

CONTACT: Jim Sandy of Michigan Business Leaders for Education
Excellence, +1-517-371-2100