ROYAL OAK – In order to ensure schools have the resources they need for their students to receive the best education possible, House Democrats today unveiled a new plan to give the state's lowest-funded schools more money to hire additional teachers, reduce class sizes and distribute necessary resources for our schools.
"Disparity in education funding puts some of our children in outstanding learning environments and other kids in classrooms with outdated materials and other educational barriers," said State Representative Marie Donigan (D-Royal Oak). "This plan would level the playing field for Michigan's students, a critical and necessary move to preparing all of the state's children for success in their future."
Under the plan, funding would be provided to narrow the gap between the lowest- and highest-funded school districts. The disbursement amount would vary based on how much each district currently receives, gradually bringing the lowest district payments in line with Michigan's higher-funded districts. At least $20 million would be available for equity payments through the program in year one.
Michigan's 774 school districts receive revenue through the Michigan School Aid Fund (SAF). Proposal A, of 1994, made a promise to eliminate the gap between the highest- and lowest-funded districts. However, the provision of Proposal A to ensure equity was stopped in 1999 before it reached its intended goal. As a result, large per-student funding differentials still exist through the current SAF distribution formula. Due to these large disparities, certain schools have the resources for top-notch instruction and smaller class sizes while other districts are struggling to provide children essential educational tools.
"In order to ensure the best education possible for each and every one of Michigan's students, we must fund all of our school districts equally through the state per-pupil allocation system," said State Representative Tim Melton (D-Pontiac), chair of the House Education Committee. "Education is the great equalizer for our urban and rural areas. As lawmakers, education is our No. 1 priority. Investing in areas of education will benefit Michigan businesses and families and make our state a leader in the 21st century global economy."