Founders Library

Interview of Phil Pavlov

Phil Pavlov Legal and Legislative, Oral History 2025 MI

Phil Pavlov, former Michigan State Senator, discussed his journey in education policy, emphasizing the importance of parental choice and the role of charter schools. He highlighted the challenges and successes of the charter movement in Michigan, noting the significant increase in charter school enrollment to 150,000 students annually. Pavlov reflected on his 14-year tenure in the Senate, the impact of the “smart cap” on charter school expansion, and the collaboration with legislators like Senator Buzz Thomas and Representative Tim Melton. He underscored the need for continuous improvement and parental involvement in education, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Transcript

Outline

Phil Pavlov’s Journey and Early Education

  • Jim Goenner, Ph.D., welcomes Phil Pavlov to the National Charter School Founders Library and mentions the MAPSA symposium celebrating 30 years of chartering in Michigan.
  • Phil Pavlov reflects on the challenges and perseverance required to achieve the charter movement’s goals, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in education.
  • Phil Pavlov shares his educational background, including attending community college and working in the family transportation business while taking night classes.
  • Phil Pavlov discusses the lessons learned from his father, who emphasized perseverance and long-term strategic planning in education.

Transition to Politics and Early Challenges

  • Phil Pavlov talks about his transition from the private sector to politics, initially as a state representative, and the learning curve involved in understanding the legislative process.
  • He highlights the importance of listening and learning before taking action in the legislature, and the support he received from his leadership within both the House and Senate caucuses.
  • Phil Pavlov reflects on the long-term commitment required to make significant changes in public education, noting that many of the people he started with are still involved in the effort.
  • Jim Goenner, Ph.D., and Phil Pavlov discuss the importance of having a mission rather than just a job in politics, and the impact of setbacks and changes in administration on educational reform efforts.

The Smart Cap and Race to the Top

  • Phil Pavlov explains the concept of the smart cap, which allowed charter schools to expand if they met certain performance criteria, and the role of the Race to the Top policy in incentivizing educational reform.
  • He discusses the challenges of working across party lines and chambers to pass the smart cap legislation, and the importance of having credible advocates like Senator Buzz Thomas.
  • Phil Pavlov reflects on the impact of the smart cap on Detroit and other urban areas, and the need for continued support and accountability to ensure the success of charter schools.
  • Jim Goenner, Ph.D., and Phil Pavlov discuss the role of universities as authorizers and the initial skepticism from traditional public education institutions.

Building Relationships and Overcoming Opposition

  • Phil Pavlov shares his experiences working with Representative Tim Melton, a fellow lawmaker from the Democratic side, and the importance of building relationships across party lines.
  • He emphasizes the need to understand the underlying issues and concerns of opponents, and the role of the ABC groups in providing valuable insights and feedback.
  • Phil Pavlov discusses the importance of having a strategic plan and the support of knowledgeable staff, such as his Chief of Staff Brenda Resch, in implementing educational reforms.
  • He reflects on the long-term impact of the work done in the legislature, and the importance of continuing to build on the progress made to ensure the success of future generations.

The Role of Technology and Innovation in Education

  • Phil Pavlov talks about the role of technology, such as virtual and online education, in providing new pathways for students and addressing the challenges of traditional public education.
  • He highlights the importance of innovation and the willingness of forward-thinking superintendents and ISDs to embrace new educational models.
  • Phil Pavlov discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the demand for virtual education and the need for continued investment in technology to support remote learning.
  • He reflects on the importance of parental involvement in education and the role of lawmakers in providing options and support for parents and students.

Lessons Learned and Future Directions

  • Phil Pavlov shares his reflections on the lessons learned from his time in the legislature, including the importance of understanding the dynamics of the legislative process and the need for long-term planning.
  • He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with educators, administrators, and community leaders to ensure the success of educational reform efforts.
  • Phil Pavlov discusses the need for continued innovation and the importance of staying informed about new developments in education and technology.
  • He reflects on the impact of his work on the charter movement in Michigan and the importance of continuing to advocate for educational choice and opportunity.