Midland County Board Approves Public Schools Week Proclamation

Commissioners vote 5-2 to recognize contributions of public schools despite some opposition

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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In a 5-2 vote, the Midland County Board of Commissioners approved a proclamation recognizing National Public Schools Week, which will be celebrated from February 23 to February 27. The proclamation honors the contributions and achievements of those who work in public schools across the county, including Academic and Career Education Academy, Bullock Creek School District, Coleman Community Schools, Meridian Public Schools, Midland Public Schools, Midland County Educational Service Agency, and Windover High School. Commissioners Larry Schuelke and Jeanette Snyder voted against the proclamation, arguing that it was unfair to those who work in private schools or homeschool their children.

Why it matters

The approval of the Public Schools Week proclamation highlights the ongoing debate around the role and recognition of public education in the county. While supporters argue that it's important to champion public schools and their staff, opponents believe the proclamation unfairly excludes other educational institutions and approaches.

The details

During the board meeting, Commissioner Larry Schuelke expressed concerns that the proclamation "invites unnecessary criticisms" and does not align with the board's mission statement, which focuses on public safety. Midland County Educational Service Agency Superintendent John Searles, however, emphasized the importance of the recognition for public schools, calling for "robust support" and "adequate funding" for local districts. The board also voted 4-3 against a motion by Schuelke to postpone the proclamation for further review.

  • The Midland County Board of Commissioners meeting took place on February 17, 2026.
  • National Public Schools Week will be celebrated from February 23 to February 27, 2026.

The players

Larry Schuelke

A Midland County Commissioner who voted against the proclamation, arguing that it was unfair to those who work in private schools or homeschool their children.

Jeanette Snyder

A Midland County Commissioner who voted against the proclamation.

John Searles

The Midland County Educational Service Agency Superintendent, who expressed the importance of the recognition for public schools.

Bill Domina

A member of the public who commented that he felt non-public schools do a better job than public schools.

Mark Bone

The Midland County Board of Commissioners Chairman, who felt that postponing the proclamation would be unfair to the public schools.

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What they’re saying

“I ask you to join me in championing robust support for our local districts, adequate funding for staffing, facilities and technology, continued collaboration with our boards of education and superintendents and a shared commitment to equity and excellence.”

— John Searles, Midland County Educational Service Agency Superintendent (ourmidland.com)

“Postponing this would be like punching the Midland Public School system in the face.”

— Mark Bone, Midland County Board of Commissioners Chairman (ourmidland.com)

What’s next

The Midland County Board of Commissioners will continue to monitor the implementation and impact of the Public Schools Week proclamation in the county.

The takeaway

The approval of the Public Schools Week proclamation highlights the ongoing debate around the recognition and support of public education in Midland County, with supporters arguing for the importance of championing public schools and their staff, and opponents believing the proclamation unfairly excludes other educational institutions and approaches.