Michigan Voters Agree On More Than We Think

Venessa Keesler, Ph.D.

In today's political climate, it can sometimes feel as though agreement is hard to find.

When it comes to Michigan's children, polling tells a different story.

Across political affiliations, geographic regions, and demographic groups, Michigan voters share a remarkably consistent vision for what they want from education. They want students prepared for life after graduation. They want schools that develop critical thinkers and problem solvers. They want young people equipped with the skills to adapt, learn, and thrive in a rapidly changing world. And they believe education should be a priority when they cast their ballots.

For those of us working to advance the Michigan Education Guarantee, these findings are encouraging.

A recent statewide survey commissioned by Business Leaders For Michigan and the Michigan Education Association found that 95.6% of Michigan voters believe it is important for our state to establish a high standard for the skills students need to succeed in college, apprenticeships, and the workforce.

Think about that for a moment.

In an era when many issues divide us, nearly every voter surveyed agreed that Michigan should have a clear and ambitious vision for student success. That level of consensus is extraordinary.

Another poll conducted by the Glengariff Group for Michigan Future, Inc. found that voters overwhelmingly prioritize skills such as critical thinking, communication, and lifelong learning over preparation for a single career path. By a margin of 76.1% to 17.3%, voters said it is more important for students to develop broad, transferable skills that will allow them to adapt to changing opportunities throughout their lives.

Likewise, 76.7% of voters agreed that students need flexible skills and the ability to continue learning throughout their lives in order to succeed in a constantly evolving economy.

These findings reinforce a core belief behind the Michigan Education Guarantee: a diploma should represent more than the completion of coursework. It should signal that a student is prepared for what comes next.

That preparation includes academic knowledge, certainly. But it also includes the ability to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and navigate change with confidence. These are the durable skills that help individuals succeed across careers, communities, and life experiences.

At the same time, Michigan voters recognize that achieving these outcomes requires more than high expectations alone. Nearly three-quarters of voters surveyed said educators do not currently have the support they need to help every student succeed.

That finding offers an important reminder. Educational excellence is not achieved through standards alone. It requires investment, partnership, support, and sustained engagement from all of us.

Which brings us to Election Day.

On November 3, Michiganders will head to the polls to make decisions that will shape the future of our communities. While statewide races often receive the most attention, local ballots frequently include issues that directly affect students, schools, and educational opportunities.

As a nonpartisan organization, Launch Michigan does not endorse candidates or ballot proposals. But we strongly encourage every voter to be informed and engaged, especially in local elections and measures.

Take time to review your ballot before heading to the polls. Learn about the candidates seeking to represent your community. Understand any school-related funding proposals, millages, bonds, or local education measures that may appear on your ballot. Ask questions. Seek reliable information. Consider how these decisions connect to the future you want for Michigan's children.

The polling is clear: Michigan voters care deeply about education and believe strongly that students deserve to graduate prepared for success.

The future of education in our state will be shaped by your participation.

Your voice matters. Your vote matters.

And the future we're building for Michigan's children is worth showing up for.

 Make a plan to vote this election day.