MSU opens nonpartisan education research center

By Robert Gold

Daily Staff Reporter

Michigan State University opened the doors to a new research institute yesterday that will release monthly nonpartisan reports about key educational issues.

The Education Policy Center, located in Michigan State's College of Education, will compile prior research for Michigan lawmakers, said David Plank, the center's director.

Plank said the program will allow legislators to gather information from a non-biased source. "It's an opportunity for us to contribute to the education of K-12," he said.

The university's office of the president has allocated $500,000 a year to the center, which was approved by the Michigan State Board of Trustees last spring.

Plank said this year the center will primarily focus on the accountability and assessment in the K-12 school system.

Some examples include examining testing policies and the "role of school boards in educational governance."

In addition to gathering research from various sources, including faculty at Michigan State, the program will also sponsor its own smaller projects, Plank said.

Current studies include evaluations of early literacy assessments, and the "preparation of leaders in Michigan schools," he said.

Plank added that the center will most likely address higher education issues in the future.

The center will act as a facilitator for the school's researchers.

"In the past, we have not had a vehicle for putting them in touch with the policy makers," Plank said.

The school currently holds monthly forums for state legislators on educational issues in Lansing.

State Rep. John Hansen (D- Dexter) said he regularly attends the educational discussions.

"Things in Lansing are very, very partisan," Hansen said. But Michigan State has "carved their niche out there for being nonpartisan."

Hansen said the center will be a benefit for lawmakers because most do not have a background in education.

Carole Amers, dean of the Michigan State College of Education, agreed that the center will play a vital role in providing information.

"I believe educational policy is a national issue. It's dominant in the debates," Ames said. "It's a top state issue."