A debate over the future of DPS at hearing

Over 100 Detroiters went to Lansing to hear impassioned testimony on what to do about the city's failing schools, reports Detroit News.

While the hearing was not intended to specifically address Detroit schools but rather about what do do with any failing district, most people in attendance focused on DPS and if academic control should be given to Emergency Financial Manager Robert Bobb or if the district's school board should stay in charge.

Skillman Foundation's Kristen McDonald spoke up to support Bobb, saying, "The time for courageous moves is upon us in Detroit. It's clearly a time for the legislature to step in and declare an academic emergency."

McDonald pointed out that other failing districts were turned around after an emergency academic officer was brought in. She said Skillman has confidence Bobb could handle the job in addition to his duties minding the district's finances.

Members of the Detroit School Board in attendance felt differently - they criticized Bobb and asked the lawmakers to keep academic authority with them.