Reports: Gov. Whitmer’s Proposed Budget Targets More Money for Schools
The Education Trust-Midwest is pleased that early details of Gov. Whitmer’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2022-23 reflect a strong commitment to investing in educational recovery, including through early childhood expansion, steps to address the teacher shortage crisis and more funding for mental health programs in schools.
Below are some highlights of the proposed budget, according to reporting:
- $18.4 billion in K-12 education spending – a nearly 8 percent increase. The per-pupil foundation allowance would increase by 5% — up from $435 – from $8,700 to $9,135 per pupil.
- Investments in mental health professionals to staff school health clinics as well as expansions for school mental health programs.
- $600 million to go toward scholarships and educator recruitment, as well as $150 million for stipends for student teachers.
This proposed budget also takes great steps forward in acknowledging the longstanding funding disparities that have disproportionately impacted economically-disadvantaged students and those with greater needs.
“Michigan remains one of the worst states in the nation for fair and equitable funding as compared to leading education states with similar funding formulas,” said Amber Arellano, Executive Director of The Education Trust-Midwest. “Closing opportunity gaps starts with closing funding gaps. That means students with the greatest needs have the funding and opportunities that they deserve to be successful now and in the future.”
