Sterling Heights Chamber Endorses Macomb Educational Millage

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., February 4, 2020 – The Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced they are giving their full endorsement of the Macomb Educational Enhancement Millage.

The millage, if passed on the March 10 ballot, will provide Macomb County districts an additional $11 million in resources that can be used to directly support their classrooms. The funding will be distributed equally to all public school students on a per pupil basis and give local districts local control on how the resources will best meet their students’ needs.

“As business leaders, Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce members know that strong schools are critical to a region’s economic growth,” said Sterling Heights Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Stacy Ziarko. “This endorsement supports high quality school districts that will attract new businesses to our communities and help existing businesses thrive.”

The Chamber is especially supportive of needs shared by local superintendents for greater support of reading, career vocational and skills trade programs, and safety and mental health initiatives, which includes hiring new counselors and social workers. Addressing the critical mental health needs gives children the tools they need for success throughout their life. The resources also give teachers professional support that will allow them to provide greater focus and direct attention to the educational needs of their students.

If passed, all school districts in Macomb County will be eligible for the millage funds, at a level based on total enrollment. Local districts will have full control over how the money is spent, basing spending decisions on the needs of the communities they serve.