While public schools around Michigan are adopting their 2009-10 budget before a July 1 deadline, the state continues to examine $410 million worth of reductions to education funding.
Last week, the State Senate Subcommittee on K-12 School Aid presented a plan for reductions to a full committee.
On Friday, the reductions were approved by the full committee. The Senate will examine the legislation early this week and may begin holding conference meetings with the House by week's end.
Reductions include cuts of $110 in per-pupil funding and cuts to early childhood programs.
While cuts to these programs won't affect Bay County public schools drastically, the Bay-Arenac Intermediate School District is concerned.
"Most of our early childhood programs would be affected by these cuts," said Superintendent Michael Dewey.
"We might have some carryover money to continue, but for some of the programs, it's looking very bleak."
State Sen. Ron Jelinek, R-Three Rivers, said he's received many calls from people opposed to the cuts.
But he thinks most people will understand the need to make reductions because of the current economic situation.
"Most people are going to realize this is a sad, but a necessary act that needs to happen," said Jelinek, committee chairman for K-12 school aid.
Sen. Jim Barcia, D-Bay City, disagrees.
"I find the cuts far too deep," said Barcia. "It will jeopardize our public education, which is critical to transform into a 21st century economy."