Michigan’s teachers’ unions will gather in Lansing Wednesday in an effort to get lawmakers to pass a budget.

The American Federation of Teachers-Michigan and Michigan Education Association “lobby day” happens just a week before the state deadline to pass a budget. Public schools, community colleges and public universities have started the academic year without information about their funding. 

If the Republican House and Democratic Senate don’t agree on a budget by October 1, the state government could shut down.

AFT President Randi Weingarten will discuss state and federal education issues at a public education town hall at Eastpointe High School Monday. For more information visit aftmichigan.org.

Additional headlines for Tuesday, September 23, 2025

• Pulaski Elementary-Middle School in Detroit has had the biggest decrease in chronic absenteeism in the state, according to Chalkbeat Detroit. In a report released last week, 14 of the top 15 schools with the most success in addressing the problem were Detroit schools.
• The Arab American Chamber of Commerce Tejara Innovation Hub has opened applications for its Trailhead program. The 6-week course provides support for new and aspiring entrepreneurs with up to a thousand dollars in funding and $2500 in support services. Applications close October 7.
• Entrance to Michigan’s National Parks is free Saturday in honor of National Public Lands Day. River Raisin National Battlefield Park in Monroe is the closest national park to Detroit. 
• The Friends of Rouge Park are hosting the third annual Mountain Bike Ramble on October 11 from noon-5 p.m. The free event provides the equipment and instruction for youth and inexperienced riders.