State Rep. Bradley Slagh, of Zeeland, today voted in support of the Legislature’s 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 and reduces the gap between the highest and lowest funded districts. Under the bipartisan plan, per-pupil funding would increase for every student in Michigan by $120 to $240 – a total increase of more than $300 million in the foundation allowance. The governor’s recommendation capped the increase at just $180 per student.

“I’m pleased with the budget plan we approved today,” Slagh said. “Investment in career and technical education, special education and school safety will make a great impact in the lives of our students here in West Michigan.”

The Legislature-approved plan also:

• Increases Career 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.
• Continues to reduce the gap between the highest and lowest funded districts.
• 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.

“Our plan does more than just meet the governor’s expectations, it far exceeds them,” Slagh said. “I am hopeful that she will do the right thing and sign this record funding into action for our kids.”

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

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