GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (July 13, 2021) — Sen. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) today issued the following statement after she welcomed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to East Kentwood High School to sign the rest of the state’s K-12 budget for the upcoming fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. The budget makes a historic investment and closes the funding gap between the state’s lowest-and highest-funded school districts for the first time since 1994.
“Education was the issue that first motivated me to become politically active, and for more than two decades, I’ve fought for increased dollars and equity in our K-12 budgets. Today’s budget signing is an outstanding step toward reducing education disparities in our communities. I’m eager to continue the work of making some of these changes — such as accessible, affordable childcare and funding for job training programs — permanent. Our state is at its best when everyone has a foundation that supports their success, and I thank Gov. Whitmer and all those involved for making education a top priority for the upcoming fiscal year.”
The budget signed by the governor also significantly expanded preschool opportunities for eligible 4-year-old children through the Great Start Readiness Program, and is expected to provide numerous other opportunities to Michigan’s K-12 schools post-pandemic that ensure students can receive the support and resources they need to succeed.
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