Without policy change, Michigan will not be able to meet its 60% attainment and racial equity goals. The Detroit Regional Chamber is committed to advocating for state-wide policy that increases equitable access and outcomes for all students.
Dual Enrollment Policy Reform
The jobs of the future require higher education, but fewer students are enrolling in and graduating from college. Higher education leads to lower unemployment and higher labor participation. Expanding equitable access to dual enrollment (DE) and allowing high school students to earn college credits while completing K-12 requirements will increase college enrollment and completion.
The bad news is that Michigan currently ranks among the bottom five states in the country for DE. However, DE works in our state.
Michigan DE students:
- Have achieved a 92.7% course success rate since 2016, earning college credits towards a degree or certificate.
- Are more likely to graduate high school and complete college than non-DE students.
- Are nearly 10% more likely to complete a postsecondary credential within four years, compared to non-DE students.
As part of the Detroit Drives Degrees Community College Collaborative, the Michigan Community College Association convened a workgroup of state-wide stakeholders to create policy recommendations to increase access to dual enrollment. Some key policy recommendations identified by the workgroup include:
- Establishing dedicated funding for DE independent of the K-12 foundation.
- Increasing access by expanding eligibility criteria and improving outreach to families and students.
- Improving reporting and data transparency.
