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Rep. Paquette supports substantial boost in funding for Michigan students
RELEASE|September 19, 2019
Contact: Brad Paquette

Today, Rep. Brad Paquette of Berrien Springs voted in support of the Legislature’s school aid budget, which includes the largest investment for Michigan students in the state’s history.

The widely supported bi-partisan 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 $120 to $240 – a total increase of more than $300 million in the foundation allowance – and directly benefits school districts in Berrien and Cass counties. The governor’s recommendation capped the increase at $180 per student.

“Although I am personally in favor of seeking out and supporting those dynamic educators who are already doing more with less, this plan delivers the significant boost our kids need for a successful school year,” said Paquette, a former public school teacher. “We’re making greater investments in CTE, special education, and at-risk students. This budget was made with a focus on our learners.”

The Legislature-approved plan:

  • Increases Career Technical Education (CTE) 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.
  • Includes additional investments in school safety grants and school-based health and mental health programs.

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

“We’ve gone above and beyond the areas outlined in the governor’s budget recommendations earlier this year, and have done so without a tax increase,” Paquette said. “I hope the governor supports this plan to deliver record funding to our students.”

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