I am writing to share my concerns about Governor Whitmer’s proposed School Aid Budget for FY 2027—specifically, her call for a 20% cut to per-pupil funding for students attending full-time online charter public schools.

As a parent of an online learner, I want you to understand what a cut like this would mean for families like mine. We didn’t choose online school by accident—we chose it because it’s what best meets our child’s unique needs, and our experience has been overwhelmingly positive. Online learning has provided the flexibility, structure, and personalized support our child needs to succeed. It’s the right fit for our family—and it’s made a real difference.

A 20% cut would put that at risk. These are public school students, and their education should not be treated as worth less simply because their school looks different.

Please reject the Governor’s proposal and work to pass a budget that provides fair, equal funding for every Michigan public school student.