Voters Approve COPESD Special Education Millage Renewal

Voters across the Cheboygan-Otsego-Presque Isle Education Service District (COPESD)
have approved the renewal of the region's special education millage in the November 3 election. 


The approval continues a local funding source that has supported special education programs and services for more than 25 years. The renewed 6 year millage is expected to generate nearly $3 million annually, with funding distributed to the 10 school districts served by COPESD. These funds help local districts provide a wide range of mandated special education programs and services, including specialized instructional support, early intervention, classroom and behavioral supports, specialized transportation, equipment for students with disabilities, and transition programming.

Because state and federal funding does not fully cover the costs of special education, this millage plays
an important role in helping regional school districts provide these services while reducing the
financial burden on their regular operating budgets.

We extend our sincere appreciation to community members throughout the region for their engagement in this important issue. We are grateful to everyone who took the time to become informed, ask questions, participate in conversations, and cast their ballots. We look forward to continuing our partnership with schools, families, and communities to support students with disabilities and help them reach their full potential.