© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Rally urges lawmakers to increase funding for early childhood education

Flickr/Creative Commons

A few thousand supporters of early childhood education are gathering at the State Capitol today.  

Participants in the annual "Star Power" rally will encourage state lawmakers to approve a proposed $130 million increase to the state budget for families-in-need who want to participate in Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program. Currently, the program can afford assistance for only about half of those eligible statewide.

The Michigan Sandbox Party is a nonpartisan coalition involved in early childhood issues and is organizing today’s rally.  Sandbox Party executive --and former state legislator -- Matt Gillard joins us to offer his perspectives.   

Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.