Washtenaw County residents approved a countywide millage to fund and expand career and technical education (CTE) programs, backed by Washtenaw Intermediate School District.

The measure passed countywide with roughly 55% support and turnout exceeding 65,000 votes, reflecting broad though not universal backing.

The levy will require renewal or new approval after its ten-year term, meaning ongoing community oversight of funding and program expansion.

The measure imposes a millage of 1 dollar per thousand of taxable value for ten years, from 2026 through 2035, and is projected to raise about $25 million in its first year to sustain and grow CTE offerings.

Washtenaw ISD currently offers more than 70 CTE programs across schools, with enrollment up 69% over four years and more than 300 students on waitlists for the 2024-2025 year.

Endorsements for the proposal came from groups like the Huron Valley Area Labor Federation and the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber of Commerce, while opponents argued it would burden fixed-income and middle-class residents.

Supporters, including district officials and school leaders, argue the millage will help students graduate with clearer postsecondary or career plans and connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities.

CTE leaders emphasize the funding will help students plan for college, apprenticeships, military service, or high-skill careers, building stronger pathways between learning and the world of work.

Officials say the new funding will address disparities by increasing access in districts with historically fewer CTE opportunities, notably in Ypsilanti and Whitmore Lake.

The funding is expected to start affecting programs in the 2026-27 school year, with collaboration among local districts, businesses, and industry leaders to develop expansion plans.

The funding aims to deliver roughly $25 million annually to sustain existing CTE programs, expand those with waitlists, and create new regional initiatives across Washtenaw County schools.

In Ypsilanti, about two-thirds of voters supported the millage, with 1,523 voting yes and 800 no.