Election 2025: Voters OK additional funding for CTE programs in Washtenaw County
Career and technical education programs in Washtenaw County will get a big boost after voters approved a tax increase to add a new funding stream for the programs.
The passage of the special tax proposal may be a good sign across Michigan, given that 41% of schools have limited CTE opportunities for students. The Michigan Department of Education describes these areas as CTE deserts, because data show participation in career tech programs is lower than expected. Tax measures like the one that passed Tuesday in Washtenaw County mean the career programs will have a steady stream of funding.
The proposal passed with 35,947 votes in favor and 29,676 opposed.The tax measure will last 10 years, at which voters would have to approve renewing it.
This investment by our community will help shape a generation of hope, said Ryan Rowe, the career and technical education director for the Washtenaw Intermediate School District.
https://michiganadvance.com/2025/11/06/election-2025-voters-ok-additional-funding-for-cte-programs-in-washtenaw-county/