Update [2008-6-12 19:5:40 by Nick]:Make that a "relatively empty" battlefield... big ups to the Education Action Group for the work they've been doing lately taking on the unions too!

Word is 2008 State House candidates across Michigan are receiving questionnaires from the Great Lakes Education Project.  GLEP is a "bi-partisan independent political education committee supporting Michigan candidates who favor improving education."

Their missions statement, according to a letter accompanying the survey:

To improve the climate for meaningful education reform, in Michigan, by electing candidates who are committed to action.

We will assist candidates who are truly concerned about the plight of the hundreds of thousands of children, in Michigan, that are being denied an equal opportunity to a quality education and candidates who will work to bring educational freedom and choices to all parents.

GLEP isn't a new name in the education battle here in Michigan but they closed up shop in 2004.  Looks like they're back with a slightly different look.  The committee's address is listed in Lansing and the letter is signed by heavyweight Lansing attorney Richard McLellan.  He's listed as the "Senior Advisor."

In years past the organization was "headed" by Dick and Betsy DeVos out of Grand Rapids.  So, being the curious little monkey that I am, and someone who's worked for both Dick and Betsy in the past, I touched base with some old friends who one might considered "insiders" and asked for the skinny.  And?

The DeVos family doesn't appear to be leading the organization at this time but word is they're aware of the relaunch and excited to see the battle continue.  As should we all be.  GLEP is a group that consistently fought to provide parents and their children with the absolute best possible education here in Michigan.  While the MEA and local unions threaten illegal strikes and drive up local budgets GLEP is going to be providing a voice for the kids they're supposed to be educating.

Welcome back, guys.  We've missed you!

I jpg'd the candidate survey and you can view it after the break...