Conlin Applauds Funding For School Safety, Literacy Bills Signed Into Law
LANSING, Mich. Oct. 10, 2024 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed three historic education bills into law today, investing in school safety and supporting student literacy. The school aid supplemental, House Bill 5503, ensures school systems across the state will receive a total of $150 million to invest in the safety and mental health of Michigan’s kids. Plus, there is an additional $1 million specifically allocated for gun violence prevention.
A bill package strengthening the effectiveness of literacy instruction and intervention in public schools also became law today. Senate Bill 567 mandates pre-screenings for characteristics of dyslexia and other reading challenges, and SB 568 requires the Michigan Department of Education to research and only approve teaching programs that include curricula proven to support students who experience difficulties with achieving literacy, including dyslexia.
After the bill signings, state Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor Charter Township), issued the following statement:
“The future of our public schools is a brighter one with these investments in funding to improve safety and mental health services and resources. For the schools in my district, I’m proud to bring over six million for schools to decide how best to address their unique academic and safety needs. We are building a statewide, world-class education system where all learners can thrive in a safe environment.”