Michigan public schools spend 11% of revenue on administration

At 12% in 2006 this cost has been flat for 20 years.

Is Michigan public school administration taking a growing share of school money?

No. Not according to an analysis of twenty years of state published data. In fact, as a share of General Fund revenue, administration costs have been trending down.

In 2006, Michigan's non-charter school districts spent 11.9% of General Fund revenue on administration. In 2025 they spent 11.1%.

What counts as administration

Administration costs include the total compensation (salary and benefits) of the staff who run schools and districts:

• Principals' Offices

• Superintendents and Boards of Education

• Business Offices

• Human Resources

• Communications and Planning

• Curriculum Leaders

Administrative cost elements include Salaries, Health Insurance, Retirement (MPSERS), Contracts, and Supplies. Not included: Counselors, Technology, Transportation, Operations and Maintenance.

The bottom line

Administration is a real cost. It deserves scrutiny. Claims that it has taken a growing share of school money are not supported. The share today is lower than it was 20 years ago.

Method: General Fund spending by function as a share of General Fund revenue. Michigan traditional public school districts, including Detroit. Fiscal years 2006–2025. Source: MDE Financial Information Database. Michigan Benchmark analysis.