K-12 schools, higher education institutions need clarity on fiscal year 2026 budget

LANSING, Mich. — As we rapidly approach the constitutional deadline of Sept. 30, Michigan College Access Network is encouraging the legislature and executive office to engage in meaningful, collaborative negotiations to pass and sign the fiscal year 2026 state budget into law. Among our network, K-12 schools and higher education institutions are being forced to make difficult budget decisions without knowing their true financial standing, adding stress and uncertainty into what should be a joyful, optimistic start to a new school year. Students who are in college classrooms right now are wondering if the financial aid they need to continue their education could be delayed or even evaporate virtually overnight.

Currently, education administrators across the state are spending valuable time and energy shifting budgets and developing contingency plans, when they could be using that time to better serve students and help prepare them for productive lives and careers. Our students are one of the state’s most valuable assets, and it’s of utmost importance that our elected leaders pass a budget that gives schools and institutions the confidence to make plans and focus on best serving the needs of their students and communities.

There are college students in the classroom today whose financial aid relies on state funding. Life-changing programs like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and the Community College Guarantee are offering pathways to better careers in vital fields, but funding must be allocated for fiscal year 2026 to deliver timely payments. To delay or eliminate this funding would break our commitment to these students, leaving them and their families in a precarious financial situation.

“We’re calling on our state leaders to pass an on-time budget that prioritizes education, makes bold investments in Michigan’s future and gives stability to students and parents,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director. “Our talent needs demand a strong educational system, from pre-K through postsecondary education, that prepares students for the wide variety of career opportunities available. Our Sixty by 30 attainment goal isn’t just a number, it’s designed to meet workforce needs, build stronger communities, and contribute to a thriving economy. We’re asking all parties to come to the table and work toward a budget that keeps our promises to Michigan’s students and acknowledges the vital role education plays in creating a better future for all Michiganders.” 

ABOUT MICHIGAN COLLEGE ACCESS NETWORK (MCAN)

As the leader in the state’s college access movement, MCAN works to improve the futures of Michigan’s students and communities by making college accessible to all. MCAN’s work centers on one main goal: To increase Michigan’s postsecondary educational attainment rate to 60% by 2030. MCAN engages partners statewide who are committed to systems-level change and the reduction of barriers to increase college readiness, participation and completion rates, particularly among low-income students, first-generation college-going students, and students of color. MCAN has helped Michigan’s postsecondary attainment rate increase for the 10th consecutive year. For more information, visit micollegeaccess.org.