Discover the future of education with 760 WJR’s School Talks! Join longtime educator Dr. Robert Livernois as he speaks with education experts on subjects ranging from technology in the classroom to social-emotional learning and school safety. You’ll learn about the latest in education legislation from Lansing, plus hear from innovators who are working to revolutionize the learning process. If you’re a parent of a school-aged child, an educator, or a policymaker, this program is for you!
Don’t miss School Talks with Dr. Robert Livernois, Sundays at 3 p.m. on 760 WJR.
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UNPACKING THE MICHIGAN SCHOOL MACHINE:
Join us for a monthly special edition of School Talks: Unpacking the Michigan School Machine. Dr. Livernois takes an in-depth look at how Michigan’s schools really work — how they’re funded, what’s taught, the politics driving policy, the reality of school accountability and the continued debate between traditional schools and charter schools. As the state prepares to elect a new governor in November, join us as we shine a light on the system that educates our children and defines our future.
May 24, 2026 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses special education in Michigan schools, defining special education as individualized support for students with disabilities to help them participate and succeed in school. He also discusses funding, dispute resolution, evaluation processes, categories of disabilities, early intervention, and disciplinary actions for students with IEPs.
April 12, 2026 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses the evolution of school security, noting that early efforts focused on physical building fortification, while current strategies emphasize proactive measures like behavioral threat assessments.
March 22, 2026 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses student discipline in Michigan public schools, focusing on laws, due process, and factors like the seven-factor analysis. He also explores the differences in rules for public versus private schools, mandatory expulsion offenses, and reinstatement processes. The conversation also touches on bullying, anti-discrimination laws, and the impact of restorative practices in schools.
Feb. 22, 2026 ~ Host Robert Livernois welcomes Dr. David Arsen to discuss school funding in Michigan, focusing on its sources and the role of the School Aid Fund. He explains that Michigan schools receive funding from federal, state, and local sources, with the state contributing the largest share since Proposal A passed. The discussion also covers categorical funding, differences in funding for public and private schools, and the evolution of school funding over the past three decades.
Jan. 25, 2026 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses the Michigan School Machine, focusing on public education’s complexities. David Ladd from Kelly Cawthorn Lobbying Firm joins to explain how political lobbying influences K-12 public schools. The discussion covers funding, curriculum, school safety, and the challenges of a politically divided state.
ABOUT THE HOST:
DR. ROBERT LIVERNOIS
Dr. Robert Livernois is a distinguished figure in the field of education, with a career spanning over 36 years. He has served in various capacities, including classroom teacher, school principal, and most recently, as superintendent of Warren Consolidated Schools.
His extensive experience covers a multitude of educational aspects, including teaching and learning, technology integration, social-emotional learning, school safety, and the impact of social media on kids.
Dr. Livernois is also an adjunct faculty member at Wayne State University’s College of Education, where he contributes to the development of future educators.
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