Shelby Review

John James, a House representative from Michigan, said that charter schools and education choice policies are crucial for student success irrespective of their background. The statement was made on the social media platform X.

"During National Charter Schools Week, we must continue to recognize the importance of investing in the next generation of Michiganders," said James. "As a co-sponsor of the Educational Choice for Children Act, I'm working to ensure that every student can succeed and receive the best possible educational opportunities available, no matter their zip code or background!"

In May 2025, Michigan celebrated National Charter Schools Week with events emphasizing the importance of school choice and the achievements of charter schools across the state. According to the Michigan Association of Public School Academies, the celebration took place from May 12–16 and included Charter Day at the Capitol on May 6. During this event, families, educators, and students gathered to advocate for educational opportunities. These activities reflected growing support for charter education as part of Michigan's broader educational policy goals.

According to a Stanford University study cited by the Michigan Association of Public School Academies, charter school students in Michigan demonstrate significant academic advantages over their peers in traditional public schools. The study found that these students gain the equivalent of 36 extra days of reading instruction and 24 additional days in math each year. These gains position Michigan among the top ten states nationally for charter school academic performance.

Charter schools in Detroit continue to outperform traditional public schools despite operating with fewer financial resources. A report by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy in 2024 indicates that Detroit’s charter schools deliver better student outcomes per dollar spent, demonstrating a higher return on investment. The report suggests that policy should focus on expanding high-performing charter models in urban areas.

Representative John James has been serving as a Republican representing Michigan’s 10th Congressional District since 2023. With a background in business and military service, James supports school choice initiatives. As reported by Invest in Education, he co-sponsored the Educational Choice for Children Act, which aims to expand private scholarships funded by tax-credit donations. His education platform emphasizes parental control and alternative learning options.