LANSING – Following up on their pledge to strengthen Michigan's schools, the Legislature passed a School Aid Fund budget that will increase financial support for the state's lowest-funded districts, allowing them to hire more teachers in high-demand subjects such as math and science, keep class sizes low and invest in the technology that will prepare Michigan's students for the good-paying jobs of the 21st century.
"Our students will need every available tool – including a high-quality education – to compete for the good-paying jobs of the future, and our plan will help them succeed," said State Representative Mike Lahti (D-Hancock). "Every student deserves access to a top-notch education. This plan sends a clear signal: We will fight to make sure that Michigan has the best schools and the best-trained workforce around."
Under the plan, schools currently receiving the lowest payments would be brought in line with higher-funded districts through increases in equity payments. The equity payments would be based on how much each district currently receives – schools that receive $8,433 or more per student will see a $48-per-pupil increase in funding, while districts that receive $7,108 per student will receive a $96-per-pupil increase. School districts currently receiving payments in between these levels will receive an increase between $48 and $96 based on a sliding scale. The new Transportation Grants include $1.3 million for districts with total square miles greater than 200 miles and fewer than five pupils per square mile.
Mike Lahti has said from the beginning that investing in education will get our economy back on track and bring the good-paying jobs of the 21st century to Michigan. Education is the great equalizer. By leveling the playing field and funding all of our districts equally, we will prepare our children to be the leaders of tomorrow.