The MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint will ensure that Michigan adequately and equitably funds public education in Michigan. In 2025, the Autism Alliance of Michigan and Public Sector Consultants will engage stakeholders across the state to develop an implementation framework to develop a proposal for comprehensive special education funding reform that meets the needs of students with disabilities. We will develop an equitably distributed and comprehensive special education funding reform proposal through consultation with education leaders from across the state. We aim to develop a blueprint that will provide greater resources to schools and ensure students with greater needs receive a greater level of financial support. Learn more and join us in creating a blueprint for public education’s future.
We acknowledge that there are many moving parts when examining education and funding and recognize the following statements:
- All Michigan students have the right to a free, public education that prepares them for life beyond the classroom
- Students with disabilities deserve adequate support and services
- All children learn differently and have diverse needs
- Student outcomes, historical funding patterns, and qualitative and quantitative data illustrate a need for systems change regarding Michigan’s funding approach
These statements are the guideposts for the MI Blueprint project and its intent to develop a fair, student-centered funding model for special education in Michigan. The MI Blueprint project will deliver a proposed framework in a legislative report in the fall of 2025, as outlined by Section 51h in the state budget. While a funding model and implementation framework cannot address all of the complexity of special education, it can inform decision-makers and advise legislators regarding an equitable approach that best serves Michigan students.