Michigan’s Education Budget Boosts Funding Across Various Sectors
In a significant move to bolster education in Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has enacted the state’s latest education budget. The signing, which took place alongside Flint public school students, marks a record-setting investment in the state’s educational framework.
This budget notably increases per-pupil funding to a historic $10,050 and emphasizes enhancements in school safety, special education, and student nutrition. “Free meals help our kids focus on learning instead of worrying about being hungry,” Governor Whitmer stated upon signing.
Kevelin Jones, Superintendent of Flint Community Schools, highlighted the importance of providing free meals, noting, “This ensures that no child learns on an empty stomach.”
Beyond nutrition, the budget allocates substantial resources to career and technical education, higher education, and various support programs. Key components of the budget include:
- Per-pupil funding: The foundation allowance is set at an unprecedented $10,050 per student.
- Free school meals: Sustained funding ensures universal free breakfast and lunch for all K-12 students.
- At-risk students: A 25% increase supports programs aiding at-risk students.
- English Language Learners (ELL): ELL education sees a 25% funding boost.
- Career and Technical Education (CTE): CTE programs receive an additional $70 million in funding.
- Special Education: An increase of nearly 10% in funding for special education services.
- Teacher support: A one-time allocation of $203 million is set aside for bonuses to help school employees with health costs.
- Literacy: There’s a $60 million investment in literacy initiatives.
- Infrastructure: Schools will benefit from a $200 million investment in infrastructure improvements.
- Rural schools: Transportation for rural schools receives a $125 million investment.
- Class size: $65 million is designated to reduce class sizes in grades K-3.
- Higher Education: Institutions receive a 2-3% funding increase, alongside a $300 million contribution to the Michigan Achievement Scholarship Fund.
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