Teacher and student swinging together

Equity Matters.

To keep progress moving forward, we need to ensure MI families have choices in K-12 education and that their students are funded equitably.

What are charter schools?

Charter schools are a special kind of public school that sit outside the traditional school district. These independently-operated public schools have the freedom to design classrooms that meet their students’ needs. Whether attending a virtual or brick-and-mortar charter school, these students are public school students. All charter schools operate under a contract with a charter school authorizer – which can be a public university, community college, intermediate school district, or a local traditional school district – that holds them accountable to the high standards outlined in their “charter.”

How are charter schools funded?

Charter schools, like traditional public schools, are free public and open to all. Unlike traditional public schools, charter schools receive no state funding for facilities and cannot leverage local bond and millage funding for their buildings.

In 2021, the funding equity gap between the state minimum and state maximum per-pupil foundational allowance was closed, ensuring that charter students (who were formerly funded at the state minimum) received equitable funding for their education. 

Who supports charter schools?

Charter schools serve students and families across Michigan ranging in virtually every demographic category - culturally, socioeconomically, etc. - and as such see support from many, diverse Michiganders. A recent poll showed that 54.3% of Democrats, 78.3% of Republicans, and 62.8% of Independents support charters - those numbers are up in every category since 2020 (MRG, 2022). 

Simply put, Michigan families want choices in K-12 education, and charter schools are an essential piece of that puzzle.

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An African-American child playing on a playground with a teacher nearby watching him
A white female teacher helping a young white boy with this school work
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Get involved in Learner Choice!

When funding follows students,
all learners rise!

Why This Moment Matters

Michigan lawmakers are finalizing the 26-27 School-Aid Budget right now — including a proposed 20% reduction in cyber charter funding.

These decisions shape how schools are funded, how student needs are recognized, and whether families maintain access to the public school that fits their child.

When funding does not reflect student needs, students feel it.

When funding follows students, Michigan kids rise.

What We’re Doing

MAPSA is gathering powerful, human-centered stories that show lawmakers one truth that numbers alone can’t capture:

Learner Choice works.

We are especially highlighting stories that demonstrate impact in:

  • Cyber & Flexible Learning
  • Early Literacy
  • Career & Technical Education
  • Personalized Learning

How You Can Make a Difference

Lawmakers respond most to stories from the people they represent.

If learner choice has made a difference in your life — as a parent, student, educator, alumnus, board member, or school leader — now is the time to speak up.

Take action before May 15:

  1. Download the Storytelling Guide
  2. Share one real story
  3. Email your Representative and Senator
  4. BCC grassroots@charterschools.org

Your voice helps ensure funding remains fair, equitable, and reflective of student needs.

<p>DOWNLOAD STORYTELLING GUIDE NOW</p>

Read About the 2025 School Aid Budget

Learn More →

Learn more about MI charter schools

Discover key FAQs and info about Michigan's charters! 
get the facts on MI Charters