LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Despite lawmakers’ delay in passing the latest state budget, Michigan schools now have a funding figure to work with after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the state’s $22.9 billion education budget into law.

The newly signed budget earmarks $19.8 billion for K-12 schools and $3.1 billion for universities and community colleges.

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The funding includes a 2.5% increase in base per-pupil funding, adding $250 per student and bringing the total to $10,300 per pupil.

In addition, the budget allocates $502 million for literacy initiatives, including curriculum, teacher training, before- and after-school programs, literacy coaches, and high-impact tutoring. The investment comes as Michigan ranks 44th in fourth-grade reading on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), commonly known as the Nation’s Report Card.

Other notable allocations include $200 million to continue providing taxpayer-funded breakfast and lunch to all public school students.

The budget also includes $532 million for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which provides financial aid for recent high school graduates and supports the Community College Guarantee, offering eligible students a tuition-free pathway to community college. Another $25 million expands Michigan Reconnect to adults ages 21 and older, allowing eligible residents to earn an associate degree or a skills certificate tuition-free.