Heather Ballien Superintendent, Great Lakes Cyber Academy rejoins the Michigan Business Network to share more about how online schools like Great Lakes Cyber Academy, are preparing students for career readiness in an ever-increasing digital world.

Originally a guest in October 2018, she now also addresses their perspective on a new state budget proposal.

To hear Heather and Jeffrey discuss the online schools and budget proposals, listen now to full interview! 

With Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s proposed education budget still under examination. Shared here is an interview with an education expert who can speak to the part of the budget that impacts not only about 1,100 with Great Lakes Cyber Academy, but approximately 12,000 students and families statewide – those who selected virtual schooling in 2018.  

Gov. Whitmer’s budget reportedly includes cuts impacting students who choose online schools because of “lower facility, maintenance and transportation costs.” As many across the state are likely unfamiliar with the different cost structures and where per-pupil funding is spent for virtual students, 70 percent of whom qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. 

In a politically polarizing world, it may be easy to rally behind an education budget that supports additional resources for schools (and children), however there is more to the story and some believe that the increased spending should not come at the expense of those who’ve chosen what they believe to be the right solution for their children.