The Costs of Equity-Based Reforms: A Case Study of the Michigan Merit Curriculum

• In Event: Roundtable Session 18.
  In Roundtable Session: From Policy to Practice: Investigating the Implications of Reform

Abstract

This is a case study of two urban Michigan high schools that implored a mixed methods approach to examine responses to a curricular reform, the Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC). The MMC is a reform that seeks to increase student equity (through a rigorous academic curriculum) and increase graduate’s postsecondary options. Both organizational implications and consequences to teachers’ work context were explored through interviews and surveys. Apparent differences in structural responses to the MMC emerged. Furthermore, results showed statistically significant differences in teachers’ MMC familiarity and preparation, school culture, perceived teacher influence and teachers’ sense of workplace fit. Consequently, seemingly similar schools experienced varied responses to the MMC, which may have equity implications for the intended goal of improved student outcomes.

Authors

• Kaitlin Tiplady Obenauf, Michigan State University

• Justina L. Judy, Michigan State University