Episode 5. The Story on Strategic Staffing (with Lawrence Hood and Jack Elsey)

What should a high school diploma mean in today's world? In this episode of the Launch Michigan podcast, Dr. Venessa Keesler sits down with Sarah Glann of Meridian Public Schools and Jonathon Marowelli of Jackson Preparatory and Early College to explore how innovative schools are reimagining student success through early college, dual enrollment, career pathways, competency-based learning, and personalized supports. Together, they share how giving students real-world experiences, college credit, and flexible pathways can help ensure every learner graduates ready for what's next.

What does it mean for a student to be truly prepared for life after high school? In this episode of the Launch Michigan Podcast, Venessa Keesler sits down with Dr. Kimberly Clarida, Assistant Director of Research and Policy at EdTrust Midwest, to discuss the organization's latest report, Ready for Rigor. Together, they explore how access to rigorous learning opportunities, including Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment, career and technical education (CTE), career-connected learning, counseling, and financial aid support, shapes students' readiness for college, careers, and lifelong success. The conversation highlights a critical reality: student potential is widespread, but opportunity is not. From dual enrollment participation and FAFSA completion to counseling access and career exploration, Michigan has significant opportunities to expand access and ensure every student graduates with multiple pathways to success. In This Episode How EdTrust Midwest defines "rigor" beyond just harder classes. Why access to AP, dual enrollment, and career-connected learning varies across Michigan. The role of dual enrollment in improving postsecondary outcomes. Why counseling and advising are essential to student success. How FAFSA completion expands opportunities for students and families. The connection between educational equity, workforce development, and Michigan's future. How the Michigan Education Guarantee seeks to create broader access and readiness for all students.

What if the choice between college and the skilled trades is a false one? In this episode, Venessa Keesler sits down with Lee Graham of the Operating Engineers 324 and Brandy Johnson of the Michigan Community College Association to explore how Michigan is connecting registered apprenticeships, community colleges, and career pathways. Together, they discuss a groundbreaking initiative that awards college credit for apprenticeship learning, helping workers earn degrees faster, reduce barriers to advancement, and build stronger pathways from high school to high-demand careers.Resources Mentioned in This Episode Michigan Achievement Scholarship – Community College Guarantee The Community College Guarantee helps eligible recent high school graduates earn a degree or certificate at a community college or Tribal college. The scholarship covers in-district tuition and mandatory fees, with out-of-district students receiving an award up to the in-district rate. Students must begin enrollment within 15 months of high school graduation and may receive the scholarship for up to three years. Learn more about the Community College Guarantee

Teachers are one of the most important factors influencing student success, yet Michigan continues to face significant challenges recruiting and retaining the educators its students need. In this episode, Launch Michigan President and CEO Dr. Venessa Keesler is joined by Dr. Madeline Mavrogordato, Director of the Education Policy Innovation Collaborative (EPIC) at Michigan State University, and Dr. Jason Burns, EPIC Research Specialist, to explore the current state of Michigan's educator workforce. Together, they examine the teacher pipeline, rising turnover rates, educator retention challenges, and the growing impact of teacher shortages across the state. The conversation also takes a deep dive into educator compensation, including Michigan's national rankings for teacher pay, changes to benefits and retirement systems, public opinion on teacher salaries, and what research says about the connection between investing in educators and improving student outcomes. The guests discuss why compensation, working conditions, leadership, and professional growth opportunities all play a critical role in building a strong and sustainable educator workforce. If Michigan wants to strengthen student outcomes, grow its economy, and ensure every child has access to high-quality educators, what investments should come next? Tune in for a data-driven conversation about the policies and priorities shaping the future of teaching in Michigan.

In this episode, Launch Michigan President & CEO Venessa Keesler, Ph.D. explores the research behind the proposed Michigan Education Guarantee (MEG), a future-focused graduation standard designed to ensure every Michigan student graduates ready for work, college, and life. The discussion covers student achievement, workforce readiness, engagement, mastery learning, accountability, and education funding.