Funding Model is Still Broken, Say School Officials (MI)

July 26, 2010

The state Legislature’s decision to give $11 per student more than last year in the foundation allowance does not add up, say some school officials.

They say the money is not an increase but just a restoration of a fraction of the $165 per student cut districts absorbed entering this fiscal year.

Farmington Public Schools lost an additional $191 more per pupil when the governor vetoed Section 20J of the School Aid Act.

Meanwhile, the state’s School Aid Fund has a projected surplus of over $200 million that could be headed for the state’s general fund.

Farmington School Board Treasurer Karen Bolsen voiced her displeasure during her report at Tuesday’s regular meeting.

“I’m the one that used the word ‘stealing,’ I’ll admit it,” she said about the school aid surplus being used for other purposes.

She said soon a new way to fund p ublic education will need to be found.

The budget shortfall in Farmington resulted in five facility closures, layoffs, program reductions and increased fees for athletics and other student activities.

“While we are thankful for the $11 per student, it does not address the $18 million shortfall that the district is still facing,” said Farmington Supt. Susan Zurvalec. “We, and our parents, continue to urge our legislators to make public education their number one priority for the ultimate benefit of all of us in the state of Michigan.”