LANSING – Following up on his pledge to strengthen Michigan's schools, State Representative Joel Sheltrown (D-West Branch) today voted for a School Aid Fund budget that will increase financial support for the state's lowest-funded districts, allowing them to hire more teachers in high-demand subjects such as math and science, keep class sizes low and invest in Michigan's students to prepare them for the good-paying jobs of the 21st century.
"The students of Northern Michigan deserve to have the same educational opportunities as all of the state's students," Sheltrown said. "Currently, there are large disparities in education funding, resulting in certain schools that have the resources for top-notch instruction while other classrooms are struggling to provide children with essential educational tools. This plan will help level the playing field for our students."
Under the House Democrats' plan, schools currently receiving the lowest payments would be brought in line with higher-funded districts through increases in equity payments. The equity payments would be based on how much each district currently receives – schools that receive $8,433 or more per student will see a $48-per-pupil increase in funding, while districts that receive $7,108 per student will receive a $96-per-pupil increase. School districts currently receiving payments in between these levels will receive an increase between $48 and $96 based on a sliding scale.
In Sheltrown's district, West Branch-Rose City Area Schools will receive an additional $227,010, Houghton Lake Community Schools will receive an additional $157,902 and Tawas Area Schools will receive an additional $136,516.
"Education is the great equalizer for our urban and rural communities," Sheltrown said. "Our children are the future leaders of this state, and as lawmakers, education should be at the top of our list of priorities. Investing in areas of education will benefit Michigan businesses and families and make our state a leader in the 21st century global economy."