Great Lakes Wire

Aric Nesbitt, a Senator from Michigan, has expressed concerns over the state's education system, stating that it is failing most students despite high spending. He proposed school choice as the Republican Party's solution to these issues. The statement was made on the social media platform X.

"3 out of 4 students in Michigan aren't reading at grade level despite us spending MORE on education than most states," said Aric Young Nesbitt, State Senator for Michigan. "The Democrat solution is to keep throwing money at failing administrators and teachers unions. The Republican solution is to give families the ability to send their kids to whatever school works best for them."

In June 2025, the Michigan GOP advanced a $21.9 billion education budget proposal. This proposal increases per-pupil funding while eliminating support for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, school meals, and mental health initiatives. According to Michigan Advance, the bill includes penalties for schools that allow transgender girls to compete in girls’ sports or use unisex bathrooms. Critics of the plan, including Democrats, argue that it misallocates School Aid Fund dollars without adequate oversight or equity safeguards.

The state's fiscal year 2025 education budget raises the per-pupil foundation allowance from $9,608 to $10,025, marking a 4.3% increase. According to the Michigan Senate Fiscal Agency, this results in a $558 million boost in overall K–12 spending. The budget consolidates several categorical grants into the new foundation allowance, thereby shifting control of those funds to local districts.

In 2024, only 24% of Michigan fourth-graders scored proficient in reading, down from 28% in 2022 and below the national average of 30%. Bridge Michigan and state testing data indicate that just 65% of third-grade students met or partially met reading standards. This decline in literacy occurs alongside Michigan’s ranking as 28th in U.S. education spending per student.

Nesbitt is a Republican legislator and former Senate Majority Leader in Michigan who currently serves in the Michigan House of Representatives. According to Ballotpedia, he began his political career in 2006 and has led efforts to reduce state spending, promote school choice, and eliminate DEI programs in public education. Nesbitt is a key figure in shaping the GOP’s 2025 education policy strategy.