The state of Michigan and three school districts - Kalamazoo, Muskegon Heights and Bridgeport/Spaulding - have signed partnership agreements at least temporarily preventing state-imposed closure of low-performing schools. The partnership agreements, signed by MDE and the local district, establish what improvements district's must make to boost academic achievement. Districts that don't show improvements within 18-months would be placed at-risk of next level of accountability by the SRO, which includes closure as well as appointing a CEO to oversee the school. Local districts that enter into a partnership remain in control of its schools "with support from MDE and partners," according to a news release from MDE. Those partners include MDE and local intermediate school districts, as well as state and local social service providers, education experts, community groups, businesses and colleges and universities.