Parent engagement and more resources to get kids to school: What to expect this school year in Detroit

The upcoming school year in Detroit presents a strong focus on addressing transportation challenges that hinder student attendance. The city announced a new ride share service pilot and a safety initiative for students commuting to school. The Detroit Public Schools Community District is expanding yellow school bus service for two additional high schools with high chronic absenteeism rates.

This reflects the city and school officials' focus on systemic issues contributing to lower academic performance and poor attendance in both district and charter schools. Parents, such as Tanecia Wilson whose child attends Foreign Language Immersion and Cultural Studies School, are closely watching the investments' effectiveness for their children. They are seeking more transparency from the district regarding its budget.

In addition to transportation improvements, DPSCD plans to implement further initiatives to boost student attendance. The district aims to reduce chronic absenteeism, which stood at 60.9% in the 2024-25 school year. Expanding a successful pilot program to additional high schools, DPSCD will also reintroduce the perfect attendance incentive for middle school students, offering $50 weekly payments during winter and early spring.

High schools will implement career pathways for ninth graders, providing seminars to help them choose appropriate courses and adapt their academic plans. The redesign includes smaller class sizes, additional tutoring, and more wraparound supports, aiming to reduce the number of credits students are behind in by 11th and 12th grade.

DPSCD will hire seven more high school counselors, bringing the ratio to one counselor for every 250 students. Lastly, parents should not be asked to provide classroom supplies and materials, as the district has increased funding by $4.5 million.