Detroit
Public Schools Emergency Manager Leaving
Roy Roberts, Detroit
Public Schools Emergency Manager, announced he will step down when his contract
expires on May 16, 2013. Roberts was appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder in May of
2011 to lead the turnaround of the state’s largest school district. Under his
tenure, the district’s deficit was reduced and standardized test scores and
graduation rates improved. However, Roberts also endured a contentious legal
struggle with the elected school board over academic control of the district. Chief
Financial Officer William Aldridge was promoted to chief financial and
administrative officer to ensure continuity and stability during the transition
period. Gov. Snyder has yet to announce a timeline to replace Roberts.
Immediate
Effect Issue Rejected by Michigan Supreme Court
On Thursday, the Michigan
Supreme Court rejected an appeal brought by former state House
Minority Leader Richard Hammel challenging the Republican majority’s practice
of giving legislation immediate effect without taking a record roll call vote. The Ingham County Circuit Court ordered a
preliminary injunction; however, the Court of Appeals rejected the lawsuit and
stated that taking a voice vote is in compliance with the House rules, which
the courts do not oversee. Hammel then appealed the decision to the Supreme
Court. The Supreme Court’s unanimous order confirms the Court of Appeals ruling
rendered on Aug. 16, 2012.