New statistics show performance improvements among students in West Michigan

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — New statistics from the Department of Education on Wednesday show that students in West Michigan performed better on state tests in most grades and subjects than last year.

The data show improvement in M-STEP math tests for grades 3 through 7 for the second year in a row.

English skills varied, some grades improved, others worsened.

Although test scores are improving in some subject areas, Meg Blinkiewicz, Director of Network Engagement, believes there is still a need for intervention.

“We definitely think there is room for improvement,” Blinkiewicz said. “It takes a village approach to support young people so they can succeed.”

Blinkiewicz said some of that support could come through after-school programs like Prime Time at the YMCA.

“We serve all eight elementary schools in Portage and a total of 13 public schools in Kalamazoo,” said Corey Clark, director of the Out of School Time Association.

“Prime Time” offers before and after school care for students from kindergarten to 5th grade.

“Participation brings enormous benefits,” Blinkiewicz said. “Research has shown again that young people who participate regularly perform better in school in terms of attendance, behavior and academic achievement.”

The heads of state and government are also signaling that they support the programs.

The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) announced that $57 million in grants are available to provide after-school programs for children and youth.

“This $57 million provided by the governor and state legislature will help 70,000 young people participate in the after-school education sector,” Blinkiewicz said.

Among the programs that will benefit from the grants is the State Alliance of Michigan YMCAs.

“The grant will allow us to expand our curriculum,” Clark said. “We will be able to purchase more and higher quality materials, which will allow us to hire more qualified staff.”

Clark said the funds will also enable the program to enroll more children, thereby improving their learning experience.

“We know that the more we practice a skill, the better we learn it. And that's true for academic things too,” Clark said.

Organizations can apply online until September 25.