School budget gets bipartisan support in House, headed to governor

State Rep. Triston Cole today voted to approve the Legislature’s bipartisan school aid budget, which includes the largest ever investment for Michigan students in the state’s history.

The budget provides a total of $15.2 billion for K-12 schools. Under the plan, per-pupil funding would increase for every student in Michigan by at least $120, with many rural districts receiving an additional $240 per student – a total increase of more than $300 million in the foundation allowance. The governor’s recommendation capped the increase at just $180 per student.

“We’re investing more in schools, skilled trades training and special education programs without a giant tax increase,” said Cole, of Mancelona. “We’re committed to making sure every classroom in Northern Michigan has the resources kids need to succeed in school and after they graduate.”

The Legislature-approved plan:

• Increases Career and Technical Education funding to $50 per student and includes $16 million in equipment grants for a total of nearly $74 million in CTE investment.
• Triples the investment in literacy coaches.
• Includes a total investment of $510 million in at-risk students.
• Nearly triples funding for English language learners.
• Includes $60 million more than last year to reimburse school districts for special education costs.
• Provides $7 million for isolated school district funding and includes a tiered formula to allow for a wider distribution of funds to students in rural districts.
• Includes additional investments in school safety grants and school-based health and mental health programs.

The school budget plan now heads to the governor’s desk for consideration.

“It’s disappointing that the governor wasn’t willing to come to the table while we negotiated a bipartisan agreement, but my hope is that she will see the widespread support this budget has and do the right thing for our students,” Cole said.