Right now, Michigan students are at risk of losing critical support systems that help them learn, grow, and thrive. Due to a political impasse in the state legislature, essential funding for school meals, special education, mental health, and transportation is hanging in the balance—and schools are being forced to plan without knowing if this vital support will continue.

We’re calling on the Michigan House and Senate to immediately pass the 10-bill package introduced by Rep. Regina Weiss (HB 4868–4877), which would lock in minimum funding levels for key programs—ensuring our public schools can rely on stable support, year after year.

This legislation would protect universal school meals, support for English-language learners, special education services, mental health and school safety resources, transportation for rural and isolated districts, pre-K access, and more. These aren’t optional extras—they are lifelines for thousands of Michigan families.

Without this legislation, many schools will have to drop universal free meals on October 1, meaning children in need could go hungry simply because lawmakers couldn’t reach a timely agreement. In some districts, up to 90% of students live at or below the poverty line. These kids deserve better. Every child should be able to focus on learning—not on where their next meal is coming from.

Some legislators argue that cutting these “categorical” supports frees up more money for general use, but educators across the state have made it clear: equal funding isn’t equitable funding. Students with special needs, low-income families, English learners, and rural communities require more—because they face more.

We urge Michigan lawmakers—especially those delaying this critical legislation—to pass this package without further delay. Our students can’t wait. Our schools can’t wait.

Sign this petition if you believe every Michigan student deserves consistent support, no matter where they live or what challenges they face.