The $23 billion education budget was given final approval this week by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The budget, which is for the upcoming fiscal year beginning on October 1, provides funding for Michigan’s K-12 schools, community colleges, and public universities.
K-12 funding includes:
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- $134 million continued investment in student mental health and school safety.
- $181 million for programs to help students, including literacy grants and literacy coaches.
- $200 million to continue providing universally free breakfast and lunch.
- $130 million for continued expansion of free pre-K to every four-year-old.
- $97 million in funding to support at-risk students, English language learners, career and technical education students, and students in rural districts.
- $125 million to help rural districts with transportation costs.
Higher Education funding includes:
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- A 2.5% increase for university and community college operations.
- $30 million to increase funding for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship.
- $52 million to continue Michigan Reconnect.
- $20 million increase in the Tuition Incentive Program.