The State Board of Education, giving him a positive review, unanimously approved a one-year extension to the contract of Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. His contract now extends to 2012.

However, instead of a pay increase commensurate with his review, Mr. Flanagan, at his own request, will see any pay cut passed to civil service employees in the department affect his salary as well as part of the effort to balance the state budget.

"We've had very great leadership under difficult times with Mike," said board Vice President John Austin (D-Ann Arbor). “(He has the) ability to help his team, the few, the hardy, through these times.”

“It's my pleasure to serve in this role,” Mr. Flanagan said. “The only concern I have is I see colleagues of mine at the department burning out.”