Shelby Review

Michigan House Republicans have announced the passage of a K-12 budget that features a $12,000 per-student foundation allowance. This budget also includes increased funding for school safety and mental health, local control measures, and the removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandates. The announcement was made on the social media platform X.

According to WLEN, the Michigan House-approved K‑12 budget increases the foundation allowance to $12,000 per student, marking a $2,392 rise from the previous allocation and representing the highest per-pupil funding in state history. The budget provides local school districts with greater autonomy by removing numerous categorical funding restrictions. This change allows each district to allocate resources according to its unique needs and priorities. Supporters say it puts decision-making power back in the hands of parents, teachers, and local school leaders, moving away from centralized control in Lansing.

The Michigan House Republican Caucus states that over $300 million is allocated to competitive grants for districts aiming to reduce class sizes, improve third-grade literacy, and repair aging school buildings. The budget also restores funding for school safety and mental health services by reintroducing school resource officers to every district after prior cuts by Democrats. The House GOP argues these investments directly address long-standing infrastructure and learning gaps in Michigan public schools.

Michigan Advance reports that the new budget eliminates state mandates for DEI programming and restricts school funding for districts conducting DEI activities or allowing biological males to compete in girls’ sports. Additionally, it bans for-profit earmarks to ensure all funding is directed toward public schools while expanding support for career and technical education programs. Proponents claim these provisions aim to prioritize academic achievement, prepare students for the workforce, and protect opportunities for female athletes.

Michigan House Republicans are part of the Republican caucus of the Michigan House of Representatives. They are committed to conservative education reform, fiscal discipline, and local governance. According to their official website, they focus on empowering parents, supporting teachers, and ensuring taxpayer funds are used efficiently to benefit students.