Gov. Whitmer launches new education-focused state department

Lansing — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has created a new state department focused on promoting pre-kindergarten access and higher education in Michigan, shaking up the existing state education department that she does not control.

Whitmer’s office said Wednesday the new Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Achievement and Potential, or MiLEAP, will feature offices governing early childhood education, higher education and “education partnerships.”

The new department will lead statewide efforts to ensure that all young children “enter kindergarten with the tools and ability to succeed in school” and that “every Michigander has the skill certificate or degree they need to advance,” according