LANSING – Following up on their pledge to strengthen Michigan's schools, the House today passed a School Aid Fund budget that will increase funding equity among the state's school districts, allowing them to hire more teachers in high-demand subjects such as math and science, keep class sizes low, and invest in Michigan's students by preparing them for the good-paying jobs of the 21st century.
"By investing in education, we will get our state's economy back on track and bring the good-paying jobs of the 21st century to Michigan," said State Representative Kate Ebli (D-Monroe). "Ensuring that our students have every available tool at their disposal to compete in the global marketplace begins with a high-quality education – that's why my colleagues and I have fought so hard to deliver on our pledges to provide our schools with the resources they need to give our children the best education possible."
The plan levels the playing field for school districts, with equity payments made 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.
This plan protects funding for schools in Angerer's and Ebli's districts. Monroe Public Schools, for example, will receive a total estimated increase of $622,512, Dundee Community Schools will receive $161,760 and Milan Area Schools will receive $236,928.
"We must do everything we can to help our children succeed and compete for the good-paying jobs of the future," said Kathy Angerer (D-Dundee), who donates a portion of her legislative salary to a scholarship for high school students to use toward college, community college or advanced training. "As a State Representative, one of my top priorities is to fight to make sure that Michigan has the best schools and the best-trained workforce around. Our plan sends a clear signal: All our students deserve access to a top-notch education."