Detroit Public Schools to take over operations of Highland Park schools

HIGHLAND PARK, Mich. (WXYZ) - Highland Park Schools Emergency Manager Jack Martin, Detroit Public Schools Emergency Manager Roy Roberts and State Treasurer Andy Dillon have signed an agreement that will allow DPS to provide temporary assistance to Highland Park Schools.

The Memorandum of Agreement is designed to get Highland Park schools through the current school year, while allowing the district's students to remain in their current classrooms with their current teachers.

Because of the agreement, DPS will assist in the management and operation of Highland Park Schools. Financial assistance will also be provided under legislation signed by Governor Snyder last week.

That legislation provided $4,000 per pupil to Highland Park students, but the money could not be given directly to the Highland Park School District. Under the legislation the money could be used by students to transfer to another school. They could also stay in Highland Park Schools, but only if another district or charter operator took over operations.

Under this new Memorandum of Agreement Martin will retain his authority as emergency manager.

“Our goal is to ensure that students face as little disruption as possible,” said Martin. “I want to thank Mr. Roberts for his willingness to assist Highland Park Schools through such trying times. I would also like to thank the teachers and staff who have been in class and working all week despite not getting paid last Friday. They will be receiving paychecks later today.”