State Rep. Donni Steele (R-Orion Township) yesterday cast a key vote for a new K-12 state education budget which greatly increases per pupil funding by $2,392 to a total of $12,000 per student. The budget also increases additional funding and grants for local school districts on top of the per pupil increase. Avondale School District would receive an additional $8,647,517, Bloomfield Hills Schools would receive an additional $6,180,239, and Lake Orion Community Schools would receive an additional $10,222,659.

“If we want to get Michigan back on track, it’s important we first start at the local level and get our schools the tools they need,” Steele said. “Our state education system needs to put our students first, and we’re leading to charge to get that done.”

The $21.9 billion takes a more flexible approach by easing rigid state rules on school funding. Rather than having Lansing decide how each dollar must be spent, local school districts are given greater freedom to choose what best supports their students. This change lets districts focus on their unique needs, whether that’s reading support, mental health resources, safer school environments, better transportation, lunch for students, or after-school programs.

“It’s about putting decisions in the hands of those who know their students best,” Steele, who serves on the House Appropriations Committee, said. “By funding and empowering our school districts, they will be able to address unique challenges and better educate our children.”

The budget also sets aside over $300 million for competitive grants aimed at reducing class sizes, strengthening early reading programs, and enhancing school facilities. The bill passed the House on Wednesday afternoon and is now headed to the Senate.

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