LANSING, Mich. (April 29, 2025) — Today, Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), alongside his Senate Democratic colleagues, announced a record education budget proposal that prioritizes Michigan students, invests in safe and healthy learning environments, and strengthens public schools. The Senate PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee voted to report the proposal to the full Senate Appropriations Committee.
“Michigan’s students are our future, and this budget reflects the responsibility we have to provide them with the safe, supportive, and high-quality education they deserve,” said Sen. Camilleri, Chair of the Senate PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee. “By investing in mental health resources, modernizing our school facilities, and helping students focus in school through free school meals, we are setting up every child for success. We’re also making critical investments to ensure teachers are paid fairly and classrooms remain small, so that every student gets the attention and support they need to thrive.”
With federal funding for education facing unprecedented uncertainty, Senate Democrats stepped up to deliver a bold, future-focused plan for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. In addition to raising per-pupil funding to $10,008, the proposal includes $2.5 billion in investments for student mental health, critical upgrades to school infrastructure — including clean and functional HVAC systems — and a continued commitment to free breakfast and lunch for every Michigan public school student.
“While Republicans in Washington and right here in Lansing are focused on slashing our public education system in the name of so-called ‘government efficiency,’ my Senate Democratic colleagues and I are focused on keeping Michigan students and educators at the forefront — where they belong,” said Sen. Dayna Polehanki (D-Livonia), Majority Vice Chair of the Senate PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee. “From supporting smaller class sizes, delivering free preschool, and investing in resources to help improve literacy, our historic education budget is set to benefit Michigan schools, teachers, families, and communities for generations to come.”
The budget proposal is part of Senate Democrats’ ongoing commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of their zip code, has access to a safe school, a strong support system, and the opportunities they need to thrive.
“We have no greater responsibility than to invest in our children and their safety, well-being, and success,” said Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores). “As we watch our kids carrying heavier burdens, facing greater threats, and navigating a world that feels more uncertain and overwhelming than ever before, it’s essential that we do everything we can to protect and support them. The historic $350 million we’re putting aside for school safety and mental health rises to meet the moment we’re in and achieve that goal.”
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