LANSING — An updated and expanded version of the School Aid budget passed the House today after House Democrats fought to see key changes made reflecting the priorities of everyday Michiganders, including an increase to special education funding. Increases in this budget will positively effect both Detroit and Hamtramck schools. In response, state Rep. Isaac Robinson (D-Detroit) issued the following statement:
“Today we can claim victory with increases to special education and ELL funding, as well as increased flexibility on how school districts utilize at-risk funding, so they can tailor their programs and resources to the needs of their students rather than rely on a one-size-all recommendation. Does this budget address every long-standing issue when it comes to educational investment? No. What we passed today is a step forward but future work is needed to provide equitable funding for school districts. We must move to fully adopt a weighted student funding formula.”