Char-Em ISD special education millage approved by voters

In a resounding show of support for special education services, voters in Northern Michigan approved the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District’s special education millage for another four years of funding during Tuesday’s election.

The millage request, totaling 1.4606 mills, was put forth to voters in Charlevoix, Emmet, and parts of Antrim and Cheboygan counties. Unofficial results revealed a strong approval with 7,019 yes votes compared to 3,887 no votes.

Emmet County Clerk’s unofficial election results showed 3,601 yes votes and 1,863 no votes, indicating overwhelming support in that area. Similarly, Charlevoix County saw 2,709 yes votes and 1,576 no votes, according to the unofficial election summary report.

Cheboygan County also showed support for the millage, with 117 yes votes and 79 no votes. Antrim County voters approved the request with 592 yes votes and 369 no votes.

This millage renewal has been a consistent source of funding since 1980, bringing in approximately $10.3 million annually. The previous renewal had expired at the end of 2023, prompting the need for this new approval.

The funds generated from the millage play a crucial role in supporting special education services within the Char-Em ISD, including program reimbursement, teacher training, specialized transportation, and more. These services are further bolstered by local, state, and federal grants.

Overall, the community’s support for special education funding underscores the importance placed on providing quality education for all students in the region.