State Rep. Joseph Pavlov last week appeared before the House Education & Workforce Committee to present testimony in favor of his bill that would help military children attain an education after moving to Michigan.

House Bill 4813 expands a current program that helps children with enrollment, graduation requirements, program eligibility and more to include children of National Guard members. During his remarks, Pavlov emphasized the importance of stability and continuity for military children as they move between duty stations and school systems around the country.

“Military families serve our country, and their families make large sacrifices to do it,” said Pavlov. “We need to help their children fit their education into the demands we place upon them for our safety, and this program is a very successful way to do it. I’m glad our National Guard members will be able to take part of it and get their kids into Michigan schools and school programs as seamlessly as possible.”

Pavlov also answered questions from committee members about implementation and how the changes impact schools. He highlighted how the program helps children integrate smoothly into classes and programs and how the children of National Guard members are currently missing out.

HB 4813 now awaits further action in the Committee on Education & Workforce.