Hopkins Public Schools

3 days ago

School funding in Michigan can be confusing. Watch the video above for a clear overview.

Michigan schools are funded through a mix of state and local dollars. But it’s important to understand that operating money and building money are not the same thing.
Here’s the simple breakdown:
• Operating funds — Cover day-to-day costs like salaries, utilities, and classroom supplies. These come largely from the state’s School Aid Fund and a local non-homestead operating millage (on businesses, rental properties, and second homes).
• Bonds — Voter-approved funding for major construction, renovations, and infrastructure. Bond dollars cannot be used for salaries or operating expenses.
• Sinking funds — Voter-approved annual funding for building repairs, maintenance, and certain capital needs, without borrowing. These typically cover smaller, ongoing projects.
The important distinction: these funding streams are legally separate. A district can have a facility need even when its operating budget is stable. Money cannot simply be moved from one fund to another. ... See MoreSee Less