One of the most important responsibilities of our school board is understanding how decisions made in Lansing affect our kids here in Traverse City.
I recently watched a helpful update from the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) breaking down Michigan’s 2026/27 School Aid Budget*.
A few things stood out to me:
• A record foundation allowance of $10,300 per student will provide districts with a modest increase in per-pupil funding
• Michigan is making a significant shift toward weighted student funding. Funding for economically disadvantaged students and English Learners will increase by roughly 20% and move into a more predictable formula, recognizing that some students need additional support to achieve the same outcomes
• The state is making major investments in literacy. Funding for third-grade reading more than doubles, including additional literacy coaches, professional learning, LETRS training, high-impact tutoring, and a new statewide literacy dashboard
• Universal school breakfast and lunch continues, ensuring every student has access to meals regardless of family income
As someone on our school board who helped develop and approve our new 2030 Vision**, I’m encouraged to see many of these statewide investments align with the direction our district is already heading.
Our strategic plan prioritizes:
• Improving literacy and math achievement for every student
• Reducing opportunity gaps between our economically disadvantaged students and their peers.
• Investing in school connectedness and student health and wellbeing
• Following the data to measure progress and continuously improve
State funding alone won’t accomplish those goals. Great schools are built by outstanding educators, supportive families, engaged students, and strong community partnerships.
But aligning resources with student needs is an important step.
Now comes the harder work: turning those investments into better outcomes*** for our kids.
That’s the opportunity – and the responsibility – in front of us.
* MASB video of 26/27 school aid budget: https://bit.ly/4yfSLsb
* MASB summary of 26/27 school aid budget: https://bit.ly/4phggNr
** Our new 5-year strategic plan: https://bit.ly/tcaps-values
*** Our most recent elementary reading/math outcomes: https://bit.ly/3SzEfLz
“We knew it looked great and now we have affirmation. Congrats to our Princess, Prince, and their families and supporters for earning the President’s Choice Award for your float!”
TY FOR TCAPS 
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