State legislators are celebrating the passage of a new school funding measure that increases per-student spending across the state.
The budget, which still needs approval from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, adds $120 in per student spending, for a total of $240 per K-12 student. Whitmer had proposed capping per-student spending at $180 per student.
The bill, which includes a total of $15.2 billion in funding for schools, also increases spending in other areas. There's an additional $50 per student for Career Technical Education, which combined with a $16 million investment in new equipment means $74 million is set aside for CTE. Additionally, there's $60 million available to reimburse districts for costs related to special education programs.
Rep. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) says she's happy with the bill and sees no reasons the governor shouldn't approve it.
"We went above and beyond what the governor’s expectations were in some areas of this budget while also respecting taxpayers and ensuring it was a budget the state could afford," Hoitenga noted in a press release.
The bill also provides additional funds for isolated school districts and establishes new processes by which additional money could be distributed to rural districts. There's also additional money for school safety and mental health initiatives.
Hoitenga also pointed out that the new school budget is a product of collaborative efforts on both sides of the aisle.
"This isn’t a budget we’re simply running through and dropping in the governor’s lap," she said in the release. "It features thorough bipartisan work and support to ensure our kids are positioned for success in our schools."
Alerts Sign-up