Although it is too soon to tell, Niles Community Schools Supt. Michael Lindley said he is optimistic about some of the education talking points laid out in Gov. Rick Snyder’s State of the State address Tuesday.

“It’s always dangerous to try and interpret what’s been said by the governor or anyone else in the first 24 hours because there is always a lot of details to follow,” Lindley said. “My comments are a first take on what I heard.”

Lindley began by complimenting Snyder’s emphasis on putting a stronger focus on early childhood programs, including increasing third-grade reading proficiency in the state by devoting more resources to that goal.

Lindley said while he agrees that every third grader should be able to read, he hopes there is flexibility in the governor’s plan to make that happen.

“For example, if a special needs student can’t attain that do we hold them back from his or her peers? Or is there going to be a little bit of flexibility for districts to work with parents to come up with a solution that is best for that student?” Lindley said.

“There isn’t one answer for all kids so I would hope there is a little bit of flexibility.”

Lindley said he was encouraged by Snyder’s focus on creating stronger partnerships between school districts and community colleges.

“Some years ago the state increased graduation requirements with a lot more math and those kinds of things,” Lindley said. “That really squeezed students from taking career/tech opportunities. I am glad the dialog is changing.”

Along those same lines, Lindley said the district is considering moving to a seven-period day in order to free up time for students to pursue career/technical opportunities.

Lindley said the district would also discuss the possibility of instituting a five-year high school option that would allow students to graduate with a two-year associate’s degree along with a high school diploma.

“We’ve been looking into it and am hoping to have some information to the board as to whether this is something we can do next fall or do we need more time planning,” he said.