by Jim Goenner, Ph.D.
The dissertation “The Origination of Michigan’s Charter School Policy: An Historical Analysis” by James N. Goenner (2011) examines how Michigan’s charter school policy was created, with a focus on Governor John Engler’s role as a public policy entrepreneur.
Key Themes & Findings:
- Governor John Engler’s Role: Engler leveraged a political opportunity in 1993—the sudden elimination of Michigan’s school funding system—to push his vision of school choice and competition.
- Charter Schools as Market-Based Reform: Charter schools were framed as public school alternatives designed to disrupt the traditional education system and introduce competition.
- Legislative and Legal Battles: Engler and his allies faced political opposition, legal challenges, and regulatory hurdles while pushing the charter school law through.
- Policy Implementation: Engler ensured universities could authorize charter schools, allowing them to bypass traditional school district control.
- Long-Term Reflections: The dissertation evaluates whether the original goals of the charter school policy have been met over time.
The study provides a historical and political analysis of how policy entrepreneurship, political strategy, and market-based ideas shaped Michigan’s education reform.
