LANSING – The Michigan House Education Committee on Tuesday reported two bills that are designed to provide more flexibility in a high school student’s curriculum, particularly if the student is interested in career technical courses.

The committee reported HB 4465 on an 11-2 vote, with Rep. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) and Rep. Thomas Stallworth (D-Detroit) voting no. Four representatives abstained: Rep. Bob Genetski II (R-Saugatuck), Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton (D-Huntington Woods), Rep. Collene Lamonte (D-Montague) and Rep. David Knezek (D-Dearborn Heights).

Changes were made to the bill so that two years of foreign language would still be required, but a student could opt-out of the requirement for another class on an individual basis.

Rep. Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan), sponsor of the bill, said the foreign language requirement can sometimes hinder students from taking other courses.

“Rather than the complete elimination of the two credits, as was initially proposed, this has more to do with substitutions dealing with a student’s time and schedule,” he said. “Especially with students who are already focused on the arts and music, which is in and of itself learning a language in many regards.”

McBroom said there will most likely be other discussions surrounding the bills and other changes may be made.

An amendment also was adopted to require a physical education half-credit, and students would not be able to obtain the physical education credit through extra-curricular activities.

The other bill, HB 4466 , was reported with a 12-1 vote, Stallworth the lone no-vote. Genetski, Lipton, Knezek and Brinks abstained.

The substitute reported from committee would offer flexibility in math and science courses by adding agricultural science as an approved course and clarifying a student could meet certain benchmarks in Algebra II rather than requiring the course outright.

Rep. Theresa Abed (D-Grand Ledge) said the bill allows for more flexibility for students who are not looking to attend four-year universities or are more interested in technical careers.

“I feel that what we voted on today adds more flexibility and helps students who have talent in other areas they weren’t able to pursue,” she said. “One is not more important than the other. We need a well-balanced society.”

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