Skip to main content

Statement from Superintendent Michael F. Rice on School Mental Health, Safety Funding

LANSINGState Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice is issuing the following statement. The Michigan House voted today to provide supplemental funding in the fiscal year 2025 budget for student mental health and safety. The Senate also voted for the supplemental, but unlike the House, did not give the funding immediate effect, which means the funding wouldn’t be available to schools until late March or early April.

“Today’s action by the House is an important and appreciated step in the right direction as we work to continue supporting the mental health needs of our students and keep students and staff safe in school,” Dr. Rice said. “The Michigan Department of Education and State Board of Education have advocated for more funding in these critically important areas. For the good of children, I hope that the Senate will reconsider and make the funds available to schools sooner. The additional $125 million in funding that’s been approved today would greatly benefit our students and local schools.”

# # #

Media Contact: