WXYZ TV: Group Details Citywide Education Reform Plan

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Detroit's dismal high school graduation rate is the focus of a new community effort.

The Skillman Foundation is leading the charge for educational change in the city through a 200 million dollar initiative called Excellent Schools Detroit.

"The citywide education plan is designed to help all children, whether they happen to attend a traditional public school, public charter school, or independent school," according to Carol Goss, President & CEO of the Skillman Foundation. "The status quo is unacceptable and indefensible," she said.

The sweeping plan establishes a goal of a 90 percent graduation rate for high school students by 2020.

The plans also calls for at least 40 new quality schools by 2015 and 70 by 2020.

The group also intends to build public support to make the mayor accountable for Detroit Public Schools.