State Superintendent Michael Rice seeks federal permission to drop the M-STEP this year because of the pandemic, but some educators say doing so is irresponsible.

New COVID variants make it more important to observe safety protocols. Meanwhile, Michigan is improving on distribution of vaccines, as more arrive over the weekend. But the governor still won’t explain the abrupt departure of MDHHS director Robert Gordon last week.

For so many teachers right now, trying to get the COVID-19 vaccine can feel like a distilled version of everything that’s been so stressful and challenging about the last 10 months: Nothing’s working the way it’s supposed to. No one seems to be able to figure out what’s going on. And you’re basically on your own.

The former Obama official had taken a larger role in fighting the coronavirus after Michigan courts struck down Gov. Whitmer’s power to issue executive orders. He will be succeeded by Elizabeth Hertel.

Even as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced limited reopening for the state’s battered bar and restaurant industry starting Feb. 1, she warned that indoor dining will last only so long as COVID remains under control.

Michigan school districts are relieved to get federal help to offset costs connected to the pandemic, but some question a funding formula that is creating wide disparities among school districts.

This is the second Michigan person arrested by federal authorities investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. The FBI said it was aided in its investigation by comparing video of the riot with photos posted on the Facebook feed of the suspect’s father.

A new, faster-moving variant worries health officials and means more people need to become immune to stop it. But the state’s history on vaccines plus a shortage of doses doesn’t bode well for meeting that goal anytime soon.

The decision, which will be finalized in the next few days, comes as coronavirus cases decline throughout Michigan. State officials say the ban on indoor dining helped drive down rates. Others aren’t so sure.

Joe Biden, who is inaugurated as president Wednesday, made four specific promises to Michigan. But even with a majority in Congress, some of his agenda faces tough sledding.

Michigan has shown progress in getting nursing home residents and staff vaccinated. But overall, nearly 8 percent of people over 70 have received a COVID vaccine in Michigan.

Whitmer wants to fast-track federal spending for vaccine distribution and aid to schools and businesses. But Republicans in the Legislature may block spending requests over ongoing business restrictions.