TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the 2023-24 budget for Michigan public schools at a ceremony in Suttons Bay. The School Aid budget — the largest in Michigan’s history — expands access to free preschool and provides free breakfast and lunch to every public school student. It also includes robust support for at-risk youth, mental health services, before- and after-school programs and so much more. After the signing, state Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) issued the following statement:
State Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City), left, holds the 2023-24 education budget bill with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who signed the bill at a ceremony in Suttons Bay.
“Being a part of the signing of this historic education budget was truly an honor. I am especially appreciative for the Governor and School Aid Fund appropriations chairs and leadership coming to northern Michigan to sign this historic bill. I’m proud to have advocated for, and secured, critical funding and a new funding formula to help rural school districts offset their increased transportation costs compared to their urban and suburban counterparts. The School Transportation Fund, with a deposit of $125 million, will help Northern Michigan school districts keep more money in the classroom, where it will help our kids succeed. Coupled with free school meals and a new opportunity index to direct at-risk funding, this budget will have positive effects for years to come.”