In 2009, Detroit Public Schools appointed a "Financial Manager,” Robert C. Bobb, to assemble a team of national turnaround experts to address the district’s legacy deficit, estimated to be around $305.8 million.

Mr. Bobb, is tasked with managing Detroit Public Schools, but his term ends in March 2011. Michigan passed several laws in January 2010 in preparation for Race to the Top that included: alternative certification for teachers and administrators, teacher compensation and retention based partially on student's academic achievement, a loosened cap on charter schools, a requirement that the state turn around or close failing schools, and an increased drop-out age from 16 to 18.

Excellent Schools Detroit – a broad-based coalition of Detroit’s political, education, business, civic, and foundation leaders who are committed to having every student in an excellent school by 2020 – issued a plan that would make Detroit the first major US city in which 90% of students graduate from high school, 90% enroll in college or a quality post-secondary training program and 90% of enrollees are prepared to succeed without needing remediation.

Be a part of the local movement by getting involved with your local Waiting for “Superman” campaign.