Genesee News

As students in Lapeer, Genesee, and Tuscola counties return to school, Michigan lawmakers are emphasizing the importance of directing more funding into classrooms and allowing local districts greater flexibility in spending.

Michigan State Representative Phil Green highlighted the significance of this period for families. "This is a special time for parents as they watch their children grow. This week, I dropped my daughter off at college for the start of her school year," Green stated.

Green outlined legislative efforts to increase educational funding. "Our House K-12 budget plan that we voted to advance in June raises the foundation allowance to $12,000 per student, up nearly $2,400 from the current year. It also moves away from Lansing’s onesize fits-all mandates by giving local districts more freedom over how to use their resources," he said.

He explained that previous state mandates required spending through numerous targeted grant programs, which sometimes led to inefficiencies. According to Green, some districts may have specific needs such as transportation or after-school programs that require additional funding. Other districts could contract out services at a lower cost than what state grants would cover. He noted, "This leads to wasted state dollars that can’t be used for other needs locally! Our plan provides needed flexibility with funding and empowers schools to decide where it should be best used to fit local needs."

The new budget proposal also aims to restore funding for school safety and mental health programs reduced last year and sets aside over $300 million in competitive grants aimed at reducing class sizes, improving early reading outcomes, and upgrading school infrastructure.

Citing a recent U.S. News & World Report study, Green pointed out Michigan's low rankings in education: 41st overall among states, 43rd in high school graduation rates, and 44th in SAT scores. He also referenced findings from a commission appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer indicating that seven out of ten Michigan students lack proficiency in reading or math.

"We can’t keep going with this status quo," Green said. He described his support for legislation passed earlier this year intended to strengthen core standards for reading and writing starting with the 2026-27 school year and allow districts more frequent assessment options during the academic year rather than relying on one major test.

Green raised concerns about the timing of results from standardized tests like the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP), noting that schools often receive these scores after classes end—too late for educators or students to address learning gaps during the same academic year.

"Sound budgeting and plans that prioritize student success will provide an effective way forward for our state and our students," Green concluded.

He wished all students and families across the 67th House District well as they begin a new academic year and pledged continued efforts toward efficient use of tax dollars and effective education policies.