Governor Whitmer signs new education budget

As of today, Michigan public schools will have increased funding.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a new $17 billion K-12 education budget.

Officials say the new plan will close funding gaps in public schools throughout the state during the upcoming academic year.

Additional money will also be provided for school counselors and nurses as well as mental health programs.

The state is also expanding preschool access. The budget includes $169 million for the Great Start Readiness Program, which will cover eligible 4-year-olds.

David Hacker is the president of the Michigan arm of the American Federation of Teachers. He said, “we’re optimistic that this long overdue reform will benefit students across the state, and we look forward to seeing what comes next.”