At KConnect, our role as a collective impact backbone is to connect people, organizations, and data so that Kent County families have equitable opportunities to thrive. One of the most pressing challenges we collectively face as a community is ensuring a strong, diverse, and sustainable educator workforce, essential for fostering systemic change.
Recently, we submitted a letter to Governor Gretchen Whitmer regarding the FY 2025 Section 27k Teacher Loan Repayment Program to seek clarity on a sharp and unexpected reduction in approvals for loan repayment support.
Systemic change is crucial in addressing the educational disparities that exist within our community.
What the Data Shows
According to information obtained from the Michigan Department of Education, only 232 educators statewide were approved this year for a total of approximately $573,600 in loan repayment assistance. In contrast, more than 5,000 applicants were denied, despite requesting over $13.6 million in relief. Compare this to the previous year, when nearly 8,500 educators were approved for approximately $16.8 million in assistance, according to an article from Bridge Michigan.
These numbers, if confirmed, represent a dramatic shift. Educators entered the process in good faith, many with significant financial need. Being met with a denial rate of more than 95% is concerning for both educators and our state’s ongoing struggle with shortages in key subject areas.
Why We Wrote the Governor
Our letter was written as an inquiry on behalf of educators, parents, and community stakeholders. We asked for clarification on:
- Why the denial rate increased so significantly compared to last year.
- Whether there were changes in eligibility, funding levels, or administrative process.
- What corrective measures might be possible to ensure that teachers receive fair and timely support.
We also requested more detailed information on how applications were evaluated, including whether denials were tied to administrative issues, program requirements, or missed deadlines.
An Inquiry, Not a Conclusion
It is important to emphasize that the data we are working with is preliminary. Our intent is not to make conclusions or assumptions, but to open a dialogue with state leaders so we can collectively understand the current landscape.
Looking Ahead
KConnect will continue to work with partners across Kent County and beyond to strengthen the educator pipeline. Asking questions like these is part of our role to ensure that policies and programs align with community needs and truly serve those they are intended to support.