School Aid conflict - July 3rd

The continuing debate between Governor Granholm and legislative leaders over her plan to create smaller high schools to address rising drop-out rates proved to be the stumbling block keeping the Legislature from completing its work on the School Aid budget. During almost constant deliberations during the Legislature’s final session day, Ms. Granholm—who expressed surprise at the amount of resistance her plan had received—argued “we need to attack the high dropout rate,” a phrase she essentially repeated when asked if not having the program in this year’s budget would be a “deal breaker.” Both sides apparently stood fast which led to the budget remaining in conference committee as the search for common ground continued. While the sides attempt to come together, House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) said quick resolution is vital to let local districts know what their state revenues will be for the coming school year. Currently, projections indicate the Foundation Grant increase could reach as much as $110 per student with starting points at $55 to $71.