Governor creates new department focused on early and higher learning

Governor Whitmer signed an executive order today creating the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential - or MiLEAP - that will focus on early and higher learning, including out-of-school time programming.

MASP celebrated the new department that will support youth opportunity and growth, having a positive impact for generations to come.

“Out-of-school time programs across Michigan provide critical educational opportunities for our state’s youth – this new department’s focus on unlocking our children’s potential will deliver more and better of these opportunities statewide,” said Erin Skene-Pratt, executive director of the Michigan Afterschool Partnership. “Before and after school programs and summer learning offerings are important for student success, so fitting this work together in Mi-LEAP with early childhood through post-secondary attainment is a smart, strategic step that will benefit Michigan’s youth.” 

More information will be shared as the department takes shape.