December 5, 2007 - The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG) Bureau of Career Education Programs, Office of Postsecondary Services, has revoked the proprietary school license from, Joanne Benton, owner and operator of James Monroe School of Health Sciences, Inc., located in Monroe, Michigan. The license was revoked November 5, 2007. Benton was ordered to refund all current students for tuition, fees, books and supplies and surrender all student transcripts to the Office of Postsecondary Services.

Benton was found to be out of compliance with operating requirements included in Public Act 148, Private Trade Schools, Business Schools and Institutes, which provides the standards for the licensure and operation of non-degree-granting postsecondary schools in the state.

Benton violated the terms of her license by offering unapproved programs of study, failing to disclose program fees and costs, failing to issue timely refunds of dissatisfied students' tuition, operating at an unapproved location, and not possessing a satisfactory record of integrity and ethical practices or financial resources to fulfill the school's obligations.

"As Michigan's economy places more and more emphasis on postsecondary education, it is important that we protect citizens from school operators who prey on students' desire to improve themselves. The Office of Postsecondary Services will take whatever action necessary to assure private career schools operate within the parameters of the law," said Bureau of Career Education Programs Director Deb LaPine.

The Bureau of Career Education, Office of Postsecondary Services, in cooperation with the Michigan Attorney General's Office, and Department of Community Health Bureau of Health Licensing, conducted the investigation.

For more information about licensed proprietary schools in Michigan, go to www.michiganps.net. Former students with inquiries may call 517-373-6774.

Read more Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth press releases.